Critical Security Vulnerability in cloud-init: Red Hat Advisory RHSA-2025:11339
Summary
RHSA-2025:11339: Red Hat Security Advisory: cloud-init security update. Affects cloud-init versions < 0:22.1-8.el8_8.2. Fixed in 0:22.1-8.el8_8.2. How to fix ↓
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Background
cloud-init is a widely used package in cloud computing environments that automates the initialization of cloud instances. It allows for the configuration of various aspects of the instance, such as network settings, user accounts, and SSH keys. This package is essential for ensuring that cloud instances are set up correctly and securely. However, it has been identified to have a critical security vulnerability that could potentially expose systems to unauthorized access and data breaches.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-6174 affects the cloud-init package, allowing attackers to exploit weaknesses in the initialization process. This could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data or control over the affected cloud instances. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 8.8, indicating a high severity level. It is crucial for users of cloud-init to understand the implications of this vulnerability and take appropriate action to mitigate risks.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
0:22.1-8.el8_8.2
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo dnf update cloud-initTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can limit access to the affected cloud instances by implementing stricter firewall rules or disabling unnecessary services until the package can be updated. However, this is not a permanent solution and should only be used until the patch is applied.
Conclusion
The cloud-init package has a critical vulnerability (CVE-2024-6174) that poses significant risks to cloud instances. Users are strongly advised to update to the patched version (0:22.1-8.el8_8.2) to mitigate these risks. Temporary workarounds can be implemented, but updating the package is the best course of action.
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FAQ
CVE-2024-6174 is the identifier for the critical security vulnerability found in the cloud-init package, which could allow unauthorized access to cloud instances.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without requiring any signup.
The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 8.8, indicating a high severity level.
If you cannot update the package immediately, consider implementing stricter firewall rules or disabling unnecessary services as a temporary workaround.
More information can be found in the Red Hat Security Advisory at https://security.access.redhat.com/data/osv/RHSA-2025:11339.json.
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