Overview
CVE-2025-8868 is a critical vulnerability identified in Progress Chef Automate, versions earlier than 4.13.295, on the Linux x86 platform. This vulnerability allows an authenticated attacker to gain unauthorized access to Chef Automate’s restricted functionality in the compliance service. Through the exploitation of improperly neutralized inputs used in SQL commands, attackers can potentially compromise the system or cause data leakage. Given the severity of this vulnerability, it is essential for users and administrators to understand its implications and implement the recommended mitigation measures.
Vulnerability Summary
CVE ID: CVE-2025-8868
Severity: Critical (9.8/10 CVSS v3.0 Severity)
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: Required
Impact: Potential system compromise or data leakage
Affected Products
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Product | Affected Versions
Progress Chef Automate | Versions earlier than 4.13.295
How the Exploit Works
An authenticated attacker can exploit this vulnerability by injecting malicious SQL commands into the system through improperly neutralized inputs. The system does not appropriately sanitize user inputs, which are then used in SQL commands. This process can allow an attacker to manipulate the database query, alter the structure, and possibly execute arbitrary SQL commands on the server. As a result, the attacker can gain unauthorized access to restricted functionalities and data.
Conceptual Example Code
While the specific exploit code for this vulnerability has not been disclosed to prevent misuse, a conceptual example of an SQL injection might look like this:
POST /compliance_service/endpoint HTTP/1.1
Host: target.example.com
Content-Type: application/json
{ "user_input": "admin'; DROP TABLE users; --" }In this conceptual example, the SQL command ‘DROP TABLE users’ is injected into the normal user input. If the application does not properly sanitize the input, this could lead to the deletion of an entire user database.
Mitigation Guidelines
Users and administrators are advised to apply the vendor patch as soon as possible. As temporary mitigation, utilizing a Web Application Firewall (WAF) or an Intrusion Detection System (IDS) can help detect and block attempted exploits. However, these methods should not be used as a substitute for applying the vendor-released patch, which directly addresses the vulnerability.
