CVE-2022-34196 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This article provides an overview of CVE-2022-34196, a vulnerability in the Jenkins REST List Parameter Plugin that could result in a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) attack.

Understanding CVE-2022-34196

This section delves into the details of the vulnerability and its impact on affected systems.

What is CVE-2022-34196?

The CVE-2022-34196 vulnerability is found in the Jenkins REST List Parameter Plugin version 1.5.2 and earlier. It allows attackers with Item/Configure permission to exploit a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability by manipulating the name and description of REST list parameters on views displaying parameters.

The Impact of CVE-2022-34196

The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it can be exploited by malicious actors to execute arbitrary scripts in the context of an authenticated user, potentially leading to unauthorized actions or data theft.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-34196

In this section, we explore the specific technical aspects of the vulnerability, including affected systems, exploitation mechanisms, and mitigations.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises due to the lack of proper escaping mechanisms for the name and description of REST list parameters in the affected plugin versions, enabling attackers to inject malicious scripts.

Affected Systems and Versions

The Jenkins REST List Parameter Plugin versions up to and including 1.5.2 are vulnerable to this exploit. Users with these versions are advised to take immediate action.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with Item/Configure permission can craft malicious input for the name and description fields of REST list parameters, leading to the execution of unauthorized scripts within the context of the affected application.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines steps to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2022-34196 and prevent potential security breaches.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are strongly advised to upgrade the Jenkins REST List Parameter Plugin to a secure version that includes a patch addressing the XSS vulnerability. Additionally, access controls should be reviewed to limit exposure.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing strong input validation, output encoding, and secure coding practices can help prevent similar XSS vulnerabilities in the future. Regular security audits and monitoring are also recommended.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates from Jenkins project and promptly apply patches or upgrades to eliminate vulnerabilities and enhance the overall security posture of the affected systems.