CVE-2021-45082: Cobbler - Cheetah Code Import Vulnerability
Summary
CVE-2021-45082: An issue was discovered in Cobbler before 3.3.1. Affects cobbler versions < 3.3.1. Fixed in 3.3.1. How to fix ↓
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Background
Cobbler is an open-source installation server that automates the provisioning and configuration of operating systems. It provides a simple and efficient way to manage network-based installations of various operating systems, including Linux distributions and Windows. Cobbler offers a web interface and a command-line interface for managing system configurations and deployment. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in Cobbler versions prior to 3.3.1 that allows Cheetah code to import Python modules via the "#from MODULE import" substring, bypassing the intended blocking of import statements that start with "#import".
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in Cobbler allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code by leveraging the ability to import Python modules through Cheetah code. By crafting a malicious Cheetah template, an attacker can include Python code that will be executed during the template rendering process. This can lead to remote code execution and potentially compromise the entire Cobbler server. The vulnerability is present in versions of Cobbler prior to 3.3.1.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 3.3.10 as of 23 Oct 2026
pip install --upgrade "cobbler==3.3.10"Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
3.3.1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
pip install --upgrade "cobbler==3.3.1"Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is strongly advised to upgrade to the fixed version of Cobbler as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in Cobbler versions prior to 3.3.1 allows for the execution of arbitrary code through the importation of Python modules via Cheetah code. To mitigate this vulnerability, it is crucial to upgrade to Cobbler version 3.3.1 or later. No known workarounds exist for this issue. For further assistance with vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for cobbler →
FAQ
Cobbler is an open-source installation server used for automating the provisioning and configuration of operating systems.
This vulnerability allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code on a Cobbler server, potentially leading to remote code execution and compromise of the server.
Versions of Cobbler prior to 3.3.1 are affected by this vulnerability.
No, there is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is recommended to upgrade to the fixed version of Cobbler.
To upgrade Cobbler, follow the upgrade instructions provided by the Cobbler project for your specific installation.
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