CVE-2025-62348 in Salt
Summary
by MITRE • 01/30/2026
Salt's junos execution module contained an unsafe YAML decode/load usage. A specially crafted YAML payload processed by the junos module could lead to unintended code execution under the context of the Salt process.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/04/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-62348 resides within Salt's junos execution module, which represents a critical security flaw in network automation frameworks. This issue stems from the improper handling of YAML data structures during processing operations, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code within the context of the Salt process. The junos module specifically interfaces with juniper networking devices, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for organizations relying on Salt for network device management and configuration automation. The flaw demonstrates a classic insecure deserialization vulnerability where untrusted YAML input is directly processed without adequate sanitization or validation mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves unsafe YAML decoding practices that allow attackers to craft malicious payloads capable of triggering code execution. When the junos module processes specially crafted YAML content, the unsafe load operations can interpret and execute arbitrary Python objects or code embedded within the payload. This represents a direct violation of secure coding principles and falls under the CWE-502 category for deserialization of untrusted data. The vulnerability enables attackers to leverage the privileges of the Salt process, potentially leading to full system compromise or lateral movement within the network infrastructure. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it can be initiated through network device configuration commands or automation workflows that utilize the junos execution module.
The operational impact of CVE-2025-62348 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with elevated privileges within the Salt infrastructure. Organizations using Salt for network device management face significant risk of unauthorized access, configuration manipulation, and potential data exfiltration. The vulnerability can be exploited remotely through network device commands or configuration updates that flow through Salt's automation pipeline. This attack surface aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, as the malicious code execution occurs through legitimate automation interfaces. The exploitation could lead to persistent access within network infrastructure, making it particularly attractive for advanced persistent threat actors targeting network operations centers.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-62348 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security posture improvements. Organizations should prioritize patching affected Salt installations with versions containing fixed YAML processing implementations that utilize safe loading mechanisms such as yaml.safe_load() instead of yaml.load(). Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of Salt master servers to untrusted networks. Input validation and sanitization measures must be enforced at all levels of the automation pipeline, particularly for YAML data processing. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous YAML processing patterns or unexpected code execution behaviors within Salt environments. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding guidelines and implementing proper threat modeling for automation frameworks, as outlined in NIST SP 800-53 security controls related to secure software development practices and vulnerability management.