CVE-2020-2127 in BMC Release Package
Summary
by MITRE
Jenkins BMC Release Package and Deployment Plugin 1.1 and earlier stores credentials unencrypted in its global configuration file on the Jenkins master where they can be viewed by users with access to the master file system.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/13/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-2127 affects the Jenkins BMC Release Package and Deployment Plugin version 1.1 and earlier, presenting a critical security risk through improper credential handling within the Jenkins master environment. This issue stems from the plugin's failure to implement adequate encryption mechanisms for storing sensitive authentication information, creating a persistent exposure that undermines the security posture of Jenkins installations relying on this particular plugin. The flaw represents a fundamental breakdown in the principle of least privilege and secure credential management, as it allows unauthorized access to authentication tokens and credentials through direct file system access to the Jenkins master node.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the plugin's global configuration file where it persists authentication credentials in plaintext format without any form of encryption or obfuscation. This configuration file typically resides within the Jenkins master's file system, making it accessible to any user or process with sufficient privileges to read the master node's file system. The absence of encryption mechanisms means that credentials stored in this location can be directly extracted and utilized by malicious actors who gain access to the master file system through various attack vectors including compromised user accounts, privilege escalation exploits, or direct system access. The vulnerability specifically impacts the storage and retrieval of authentication information used for BMC release package and deployment operations, potentially enabling unauthorized access to target systems and deployment environments.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-2127 extends beyond immediate credential theft to encompass broader security implications for enterprise deployment processes and system integrity. Attackers who exploit this vulnerability can gain unauthorized access to production environments, deployment servers, and target systems that rely on the BMC deployment plugin for automated release management. This exposure creates opportunities for privilege escalation, lateral movement within network environments, and potential data breaches through unauthorized access to sensitive systems. The vulnerability affects organizations that utilize Jenkins for continuous integration and deployment pipelines, where the compromised credentials could enable attackers to execute unauthorized deployments, modify production systems, or gain access to additional resources within the deployment ecosystem. The impact is particularly severe in environments where Jenkins masters are not adequately protected through network segmentation, access controls, or monitoring mechanisms.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-312 (Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information) and represents a failure in secure credential management practices as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten security risks. The issue also maps to ATT&CK technique T1552.001 (Unsecured Credentials) and T1078.004 (Valid Accounts: Cloud Accounts) when considering the broader attack surface and potential for credential abuse. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to plugin versions that address the encryption vulnerability, implementing strict file system access controls, and establishing monitoring for unauthorized access attempts to Jenkins master configurations. The recommended remediation approach includes applying the vendor-supplied patch or upgrade, implementing proper credential rotation procedures, and ensuring that Jenkins master nodes are protected through network segmentation, access controls, and regular security assessments to prevent unauthorized file system access. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing credential management solutions that provide centralized, encrypted storage for authentication information rather than relying on local file system storage mechanisms.