CVE-2019-16540 in Support Core Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
A path traversal vulnerability in Jenkins Support Core Plugin 2.63 and earlier allows attackers with Overall/Read permission to delete arbitrary files on the Jenkins master.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/22/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-16540 represents a critical path traversal flaw within the Jenkins Support Core Plugin version 2.63 and earlier. This security weakness specifically targets the file deletion functionality of the plugin, creating a scenario where authenticated attackers can exploit the system to remove arbitrary files from the Jenkins master server. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and improper handling of file paths during deletion operations, allowing malicious users to manipulate the file system through crafted requests.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate sanitization of user-supplied input within the plugin's file deletion mechanism. When the Support Core Plugin processes file deletion requests, it fails to properly validate or sanitize the file paths provided by users, enabling attackers to construct malicious paths that traverse the file system directories. This flaw operates under the principle of path traversal where attackers can move outside the intended directory boundaries and access files they should not be able to reach. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires only the minimal Overall/Read permission, which many Jenkins installations grant to users who need basic access to the system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file deletion capabilities and represents a significant threat to Jenkins server integrity and security posture. An attacker who gains access with Overall/Read permission can potentially delete critical system files, configuration files, or even the Jenkins installation itself, leading to complete system compromise. This vulnerability can be exploited to disrupt service availability, destroy forensic evidence, or create backdoor access points by removing security-critical components. The implications are severe because Jenkins masters often contain sensitive build artifacts, credentials, and system configurations that could be leveraged by attackers to escalate privileges or maintain persistent access to the environment.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement mitigations including updating to version 2.64 or later of the Support Core Plugin where the path traversal issue has been resolved. System administrators should also review and restrict user permissions to minimize the attack surface, ensuring that only trusted administrators have Overall/Read access. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and follows patterns identified in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059.001 technique for Command and Scripting Interpreter. Additionally, this issue demonstrates the importance of input validation and proper access controls in maintaining secure software systems, particularly in continuous integration environments where Jenkins servers serve as critical infrastructure components for software development and deployment processes.