CVE-2023-24449 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE record was published on January 24, 2023, for the Jenkins PWauth Security Realm Plugin. It poses a security risk due to a vulnerability that allows attackers to check for the existence of specified file paths on the Jenkins controller file system.

Understanding CVE-2023-24449

This section will provide a detailed insight into the nature and impact of CVE-2023-24449.

What is CVE-2023-24449?

CVE-2023-24449 concerns the Jenkins PWauth Security Realm Plugin, specifically versions 0.4 and earlier. The vulnerability lies in the lack of file name restriction in methods implementing form validation, enabling attackers with Overall/Read permissions to exploit the system.

The Impact of CVE-2023-24449

The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows attackers to potentially access and manipulate the file system on the Jenkins controller. This could lead to unauthorized access, data theft, or even system compromise.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-24449

In this section, we will delve deeper into the technical aspects of CVE-2023-24449, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Jenkins PWauth Security Realm Plugin versions 0.4 and earlier arises from the lack of file name restrictions in form validation methods. This oversight enables attackers to probe for specific file paths on the Jenkins controller file system.

Affected Systems and Versions

The Jenkins PWauth Security Realm Plugin versions 0.4 and earlier are susceptible to this vulnerability. Users of these versions are advised to take immediate action to mitigate the risk.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with Overall/Read permissions can leverage the lack of file name restrictions to manipulate the file system paths on the Jenkins controller. By checking for the existence of specified files, they can potentially execute unauthorized actions.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-24449 effectively, mitigation steps and long-term security practices are crucial.

Immediate Steps to Take

Administrators are advised to update the Jenkins PWauth Security Realm Plugin to a patched version that addresses the file name restriction issue. Additionally, restricting permissions and monitoring for any suspicious activity can help mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing robust security practices, such as regular security audits, user privilege management, and timely software updates, can enhance the overall security posture of Jenkins deployments. Training users on best security practices is also essential.

Patching and Updates

Users should regularly monitor security advisories from Jenkins Project and apply patches promptly to ensure that their systems are protected against known vulnerabilities. Keeping software up to date is a fundamental aspect of maintaining a secure environment.