CVE-2020-2107 in Fortify Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
Jenkins Fortify Plugin 19.1.29 and earlier stores proxy server passwords unencrypted in job config.xml files on the Jenkins master where they can be viewed by users with Extended Read permission, or access to the master file system.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/30/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-2107 affects the Jenkins Fortify Plugin version 19.1.29 and earlier, presenting a critical security flaw in how proxy server credentials are managed within the Jenkins environment. This issue stems from the improper handling of sensitive authentication data during the configuration process, where proxy passwords are stored in plain text within job configuration files. The vulnerability specifically impacts the Jenkins master node where these configuration files reside, creating an attack surface that can be exploited by unauthorized individuals with sufficient privileges.
The technical implementation of this flaw involves the plugin's failure to encrypt or obfuscate proxy server authentication credentials when persisting configuration data to the job config.xml files. This unencrypted storage mechanism directly violates fundamental security principles for credential management and represents a clear violation of the principle of least privilege. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows users with Extended Read permission to access these sensitive credentials, which aligns with CWE-522 - Insufficiently Protected Credentials, and demonstrates poor implementation of secure configuration management practices. The flaw essentially transforms what should be a secure credential storage mechanism into a potential source of unauthorized access to external systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential exposure, as it creates potential for privilege escalation and lateral movement within the Jenkins environment. Attackers who can read job configuration files or obtain Extended Read permissions can extract proxy server passwords that may grant access to internal systems, external services, or corporate networks that the Jenkins instance interacts with. This exposure can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive corporate resources, data exfiltration, and potentially compromise the integrity of the entire CI/CD pipeline. The vulnerability also impacts the confidentiality and integrity of the Jenkins environment, as it allows unauthorized parties to gain access to authentication tokens and credentials that should remain protected.
Organizations utilizing Jenkins Fortify Plugin versions 19.1.29 and earlier should immediately implement mitigation strategies to address this vulnerability. The primary recommendation involves upgrading to a patched version of the plugin where proxy credentials are properly encrypted or handled through secure credential management mechanisms. Additionally, administrators should review and restrict Extended Read permissions to minimize the attack surface, implementing principle of least privilege access controls. System administrators should also conduct thorough audits of existing job configurations to identify and remove any exposed proxy credentials, followed by reconfiguration using secure methods. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure credential handling in automated build environments and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1555.003 - Credentials from Password Stores, highlighting the need for comprehensive credential protection strategies. The remediation process should include implementing proper access controls, credential rotation procedures, and regular security assessments to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other components of the Jenkins infrastructure.