CVE-2019-8447 in JIRA
Summary
by MITRE
The ServiceExecutor resource in Jira before version 8.3.2 allows remote attackers to trigger the creation of export files via a Cross-site request forgery (CSRF) vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/01/2023
The CVE-2019-8447 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site request forgery flaw within Atlassian Jira's ServiceExecutor resource functionality. This vulnerability exists in Jira versions prior to 8.3.2 and allows remote attackers to manipulate the system's export capabilities through forged requests. The core issue stems from insufficient validation of request origins and lack of proper anti-CSRF token implementation within the service execution endpoints. Attackers can craft malicious requests that, when executed by authenticated users, trigger unintended export operations that may expose sensitive data or consume system resources unnecessarily.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of Jira's internal service execution mechanisms that handle export file generation. When a user visits a malicious website or clicks on a crafted link, the CSRF attack can force the user's browser to submit a request to the vulnerable Jira instance. The ServiceExecutor resource processes this request without proper origin verification, allowing the attacker to initiate export operations that could contain confidential project data, user information, or system configurations. This flaw particularly affects the export functionality that generates files in various formats such as CSV, XML, or JSON, potentially exposing sensitive organizational information to unauthorized parties.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-8447 extends beyond simple data exposure, as it can lead to resource exhaustion and potential information disclosure. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to repeatedly trigger export operations, consuming server resources and potentially causing denial of service conditions. The vulnerability affects organizations using Jira versions before 8.3.2, making it a widespread concern for enterprises that have not yet updated their systems. The attack vector requires user interaction through web browsers, but once a user is authenticated, the attack can be executed without additional authentication requirements. This makes it particularly dangerous in environments where users frequently access web applications from shared or untrusted networks.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to Jira version 8.3.2 or later, which includes proper CSRF token validation and origin checking mechanisms. System administrators should also consider implementing additional security controls such as web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious cross-site request patterns. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-352, which specifically addresses cross-site request forgery weaknesses in web applications. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to technique T1078 for valid accounts usage and T1566 for social engineering through malicious links. Organizations should also review their network access controls and implement proper monitoring for unusual export activity patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts. The fix implemented in Jira 8.3.2 includes enhanced token validation mechanisms and stricter request origin verification to prevent unauthorized service execution through forged requests.