CVE-2020-2200 in Play Framework Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
Jenkins Play Framework Plugin 1.0.2 and earlier lets users specify the path to the `play` command on the Jenkins master for a form validation endpoint, resulting in an OS command injection vulnerability exploitable by users able to store such a file on the Jenkins master.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/04/2020
The Jenkins Play Framework Plugin vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-2200 represents a critical security flaw that enables unauthorized command execution on Jenkins master servers. This vulnerability specifically affects versions 1.0.2 and earlier of the plugin, where the software fails to properly validate user input when specifying the path to the play command. The flaw occurs within the form validation endpoint, creating a path traversal and command injection vector that can be exploited by malicious actors with sufficient privileges to upload files to the Jenkins master system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input sanitization within the plugin's handling of the play command path parameter. When users configure the plugin settings, they can specify a custom path to the play command, which is then executed on the Jenkins master server. The lack of proper validation allows attackers to inject malicious commands that get executed with the privileges of the Jenkins process. This creates a direct path for arbitrary code execution, as the system does not properly separate user-controlled input from command execution contexts. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires only the ability to store files on the master server, which many Jenkins installations allow through various attack vectors such as file upload functionality or other misconfigurations.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-2200 extends far beyond simple command execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the Jenkins master environment. Successful exploitation can lead to data theft, unauthorized access to build artifacts, modification of build processes, and potential lateral movement within the network infrastructure. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges, establish persistence mechanisms, and conduct further reconnaissance activities. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-78, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and reflects patterns commonly seen in command injection attacks that fall under the ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and script interpreter. Organizations running affected Jenkins instances face significant risk of compromise, particularly in environments where Jenkins serves as a central automation hub for software development and deployment processes.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-2200 should focus on immediate plugin updates to versions that address the command injection vulnerability, along with comprehensive access controls and network segmentation. System administrators should implement strict file upload restrictions and monitor for unauthorized file storage activities on Jenkins master servers. The recommended remediation includes upgrading to the latest plugin version, applying security patches immediately, and conducting thorough security assessments of all Jenkins configurations. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls, restricting file upload capabilities to only trusted users and groups, and establishing monitoring procedures to detect potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, network-level protections such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems should be configured to monitor for suspicious command execution patterns and unauthorized file access activities. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation in web applications and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of plugin components within continuous integration systems.