CVE-2017-2608 in Jenkins
Summary
by MITRE
Jenkins before versions 2.44, 2.32.2 is vulnerable to a remote code execution vulnerability involving the deserialization of various types in javax.imageio in XStream-based APIs (SECURITY-383).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/13/2023
This vulnerability exists within Jenkins continuous integration platform and represents a critical remote code execution flaw that affects versions prior to 2.44 and 2.32.2. The vulnerability stems from insecure deserialization practices within XStream-based APIs that process image data through the javax.imageio package. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious serialized objects that trigger remote code execution when processed by the vulnerable Jenkins instances. The vulnerability specifically targets the deserialization of image-related data structures that utilize XStream libraries for object serialization and deserialization operations.
The technical implementation of this flaw leverages the inherent dangers of Java deserialization vulnerabilities where untrusted data can be manipulated to execute arbitrary code on the target system. When Jenkins processes image data through its XStream-based APIs, it deserializes objects without proper validation or sanitization of the input data. This creates an attack surface where maliciously crafted serialized objects can contain malicious payloads that execute upon deserialization. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to execute commands with the privileges of the Jenkins process, typically running with elevated system permissions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution to potentially compromise entire CI/CD pipelines and underlying infrastructure. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain complete control over the Jenkins server, potentially accessing source code repositories, build artifacts, and sensitive configuration data. This compromise can lead to supply chain attacks where malicious code is injected into the build process, affecting downstream applications and systems that rely on Jenkins for continuous integration. The vulnerability also enables lateral movement within networks where Jenkins servers are deployed, as attackers can use the compromised system as a pivot point to access other internal resources.
Security professionals should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability, including immediate patching of affected Jenkins versions to the recommended secure releases. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to Jenkins servers, particularly limiting exposure to untrusted networks. Input validation and sanitization measures should be strengthened to prevent malicious serialized objects from reaching the deserialization layer. Additionally, monitoring systems should be configured to detect unusual deserialization patterns or suspicious network activity related to Jenkins services. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies and using security tools that can detect and prevent deserialization attacks. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-502 which specifically addresses deserialization of untrusted data, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as the exploitation results in arbitrary code execution capabilities.