CVE-2024-8775 is a vulnerability identified in Ansible version 1.0.0 that involves the inadvertent exposure of sensitive information stored in Ansible Vault files. Ansible Vault is a feature used to encrypt secrets such as passwords, API keys, and other confidential data within playbooks. The vulnerability occurs when tasks like include_vars are used to load these vaulted variables without setting the no_log: true parameter. The no_log parameter is designed to suppress output of sensitive information in playbook logs and standard output. Without this parameter, the decrypted secrets are printed in plaintext during playbook execution, which can be captured in logs or console output. This exposure compromises the confidentiality of sensitive data and can lead to unauthorized access if attackers gain access to these logs. The vulnerability requires the attacker to have limited privileges (local access) but does not require user interaction. The CVSS v3.1 score is 5.5 (medium severity), reflecting the local attack vector, low complexity, and high impact on confidentiality but no impact on integrity or availability. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication. The flaw highlights the importance of secure logging practices when handling encrypted secrets in automation workflows.

For European organizations, the exposure of sensitive information such as passwords and API keys can have significant security implications. Confidentiality breaches can lead to unauthorized access to critical systems, data exfiltration, or lateral movement within networks. Organizations relying heavily on Ansible for infrastructure automation, configuration management, and deployment—especially those managing cloud environments, critical infrastructure, or regulated data—face increased risk. The inadvertent logging of secrets can also violate compliance requirements such as GDPR, which mandates protection of sensitive data. Additionally, leaked credentials could be used in targeted attacks against European enterprises, potentially impacting sectors like finance, healthcare, and government. The medium severity rating suggests that while the vulnerability is not trivially exploitable remotely, the risk is substantial in environments where local access is possible or where logs are widely accessible. The lack of integrity or availability impact limits the scope to confidentiality, but this remains critical given the nature of the exposed data.

European organizations should immediately audit their Ansible playbooks and automation scripts to ensure that any tasks loading vaulted variables (e.g., include_vars) explicitly set no_log: true to prevent sensitive data from being logged. Review existing logs and outputs for any accidental exposure of secrets and rotate any credentials found to be compromised. Implement strict access controls on log storage and restrict access to authorized personnel only. Monitor and limit local access to systems running Ansible playbooks to reduce the risk of exploitation. Stay informed about Ansible updates and apply patches or upgrade to fixed versions as soon as they become available. Consider integrating automated scanning tools to detect insecure logging practices in infrastructure as code repositories. Additionally, enforce security best practices such as segregating duties, using ephemeral credentials, and employing centralized secret management solutions to minimize the impact of potential leaks.