CVE-2025-53675 in Warrior Framework Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 07/09/2025
Jenkins Warrior Framework Plugin 1.2 and earlier stores passwords unencrypted in job config.xml files on the Jenkins controller, where they can be viewed by users with Item/Extended Read permission or access to the Jenkins controller file system.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/11/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-53675 affects the Jenkins Warrior Framework Plugin version 1.2 and earlier, presenting a significant security risk through improper credential handling within the Jenkins automation platform. This issue resides in the fundamental design of how sensitive authentication data is stored and managed within the plugin's configuration files, creating a persistent exposure that can be exploited by unauthorized individuals with specific access privileges. The flaw represents a critical weakness in Jenkins' security architecture, as it directly undermines the principle of least privilege and proper credential segregation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the plugin's decision to store passwords in plain text format within the job configuration xml files on the Jenkins controller server. This practice violates established security principles and industry standards such as those outlined in CWE-312, which specifically addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper data handling. The configuration files are stored in the standard Jenkins file system location where job configurations are maintained, making them accessible through normal file system operations or through the Jenkins web interface when users possess the appropriate permissions. The plugin fails to implement any form of encryption or obfuscation for password fields, leaving them completely exposed to anyone who can read the configuration files.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it enables attackers with Item/Extended Read permission to extract authentication credentials that can be used for lateral movement within the Jenkins environment and potentially beyond. This access level is often granted to users who require the ability to view job configurations but not necessarily to modify them, creating an unexpected privilege escalation vector. The exposure affects not only the immediate Jenkins environment but can also compromise downstream systems that rely on the credentials stored in these job configurations. Attackers can leverage this information to gain access to source code repositories, build servers, deployment targets, and other systems that may be configured to use the same or related credentials. This vulnerability can be exploited through both direct file system access and through the Jenkins web interface, providing multiple attack vectors for threat actors.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both the immediate exposure and the underlying architectural flaw in the plugin's credential handling. The most effective immediate solution involves upgrading to a patched version of the Jenkins Warrior Framework Plugin where the vulnerability has been resolved through proper encryption of password fields. Organizations should implement strict access controls and regularly audit permissions to ensure that users with Item/Extended Read access are properly vetted and monitored. Additionally, implementing Jenkins security features such as the Credentials Binding Plugin can help centralize credential management and reduce the exposure of sensitive information within job configurations. The remediation process should include comprehensive scanning of existing job configurations to identify and remove any exposed credentials, followed by reconfiguration using secure credential management practices. Organizations should also consider implementing additional monitoring and alerting mechanisms to detect unauthorized access attempts to Jenkins configuration files, as outlined in the ATT&CK framework's credential access tactics. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other Jenkins plugins and ensure that the overall security posture remains robust against evolving threats.