CVE-2024-38824 is a directory traversal vulnerability identified in the recv_file method of VMware SALT versions 3006.x and 3007.x. This flaw allows an attacker with at least limited privileges (PR:L) to write arbitrary files outside the intended directory, specifically into the master cache directory, by manipulating file paths. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-22 (Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory), which typically enables attackers to escape sandboxed or restricted file system locations. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 9.6 reflects its critical severity, with network attack vector (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), privileges required (PR:L), no user interaction (UI:N), and scope change (S:C). The impact on confidentiality and integrity is high, as arbitrary file writes can lead to code execution, data tampering, or persistent backdoors. Availability impact is rated none, indicating the vulnerability does not directly cause denial of service. Although no exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability's characteristics make it a prime target for attackers aiming to compromise VMware SALT deployments. VMware SALT is used for configuration management and automation, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where it manages critical infrastructure or sensitive data. The lack of available patches at the time of publication necessitates immediate risk mitigation and monitoring by affected organizations.

The vulnerability allows attackers to write arbitrary files to the master cache directory, potentially leading to unauthorized code execution, privilege escalation, or persistent compromise of the VMware SALT master server. This can result in full system compromise, data breaches, and manipulation of configuration management processes. Given VMware SALT's role in automating and managing infrastructure, exploitation could cascade to multiple systems, amplifying the impact. Confidentiality is severely impacted as attackers can inject malicious files or overwrite sensitive data. Integrity is compromised due to unauthorized modifications. Although availability is not directly affected, the overall operational security posture is degraded, increasing the risk of further attacks. Organizations relying on SALT for critical infrastructure automation face heightened risks of disruption and espionage. The vulnerability's network accessibility and lack of user interaction required make it highly exploitable in hostile environments.

1. Immediately monitor VMware SALT deployments for unusual file writes or unexpected changes in the master cache directory. 2. Restrict access to the SALT master server to trusted administrators and limit network exposure to reduce attack surface. 3. Employ file integrity monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized file modifications in critical directories. 4. Implement strict input validation and path sanitization controls where possible within SALT configurations or wrappers. 5. Use network segmentation to isolate SALT infrastructure from less trusted networks. 6. Prepare to apply official patches or updates from VMware as soon as they are released. 7. Conduct thorough audits of SALT master server logs to identify potential exploitation attempts. 8. Consider temporary compensating controls such as disabling or restricting the recv_file method if feasible without disrupting operations. 9. Educate system administrators about the vulnerability and encourage vigilance for suspicious activity. 10. Maintain up-to-date backups of configuration and critical data to enable recovery if compromise occurs.