CVE-2020-2172 in Code Coverage API Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
Jenkins Code Coverage API Plugin 1.1.4 and earlier does not configure its XML parser to prevent XML external entity (XXE) attacks.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/08/2020
The Jenkins Code Coverage API Plugin vulnerability CVE-2020-2172 represents a critical security flaw in the XML processing configuration of the plugin version 1.1.4 and earlier. This vulnerability stems from the plugin's failure to properly configure its XML parser to mitigate XML external entity attacks, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system through carefully crafted XML input. The issue directly impacts the plugin's ability to process XML data safely, potentially allowing attackers to access sensitive system resources or execute unauthorized operations.
This vulnerability falls under the CWE-611 category of XML External Entity Processing, which is classified as a serious weakness in software applications that process XML data. The specific technical flaw occurs when the plugin's XML parser accepts external entity declarations without proper restrictions, enabling attackers to reference external resources during XML processing. The vulnerability exists because the plugin does not implement secure XML parsing practices such as disabling external entity resolution or setting appropriate parser configurations that would prevent malicious XML documents from exploiting the system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data processing concerns, as it creates potential attack vectors that could compromise the integrity and confidentiality of Jenkins environments. Attackers could leverage this XXE vulnerability to perform server-side request forgery attacks, access local files through file protocol references, or even conduct port scanning against internal network resources. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where Jenkins servers often have elevated privileges and access to sensitive code repositories, build artifacts, and deployment systems. This weakness could enable attackers to escalate privileges or gain unauthorized access to critical infrastructure components that Jenkins typically manages.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-2172 focus on updating the affected plugin to version 1.1.5 or later, which includes proper XML parser configuration to prevent external entity resolution. Organizations should also implement comprehensive patch management processes to ensure all Jenkins plugins are regularly updated and monitored for security vulnerabilities. Additional defensive measures include configuring firewall rules to restrict access to Jenkins servers, implementing network segmentation to limit potential attack surface, and conducting regular security assessments of Jenkins environments. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which describes exploitation of vulnerabilities in remote services, and organizations should consider implementing application whitelisting controls to prevent unauthorized plugin installations that might introduce similar XXE vulnerabilities into their Jenkins environments.