CVE-2023-28679 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This article provides insights into CVE-2023-28679, shedding light on its impact, technical details, and mitigation measures.

Understanding CVE-2023-28679

CVE-2023-28679 pertains to a vulnerability found in the Jenkins Mashup Portlets Plugin, specifically affecting versions 1.1.2 and earlier. This vulnerability enables authenticated attackers with Overall/Read permission to exploit a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability using the "Generic JS Portlet" feature.

What is CVE-2023-28679?

CVE-2023-28679 is a security flaw present in the Jenkins Mashup Portlets Plugin that allows attackers with specific permissions to execute a stored cross-site scripting attack through a custom JavaScript expression.

The Impact of CVE-2023-28679

The impact of CVE-2023-28679 is significant as it exposes systems using affected versions of the Jenkins Mashup Portlets Plugin to potential XSS attacks by authenticated malicious actors, potentially leading to data theft or manipulation.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-28679

The following technical details shed light on the vulnerability:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the Jenkins Mashup Portlets Plugin (versions 1.1.2 and earlier) allows authenticated attackers with Overall/Read permission to execute a stored cross-site scripting attack using the "Generic JS Portlet" feature.

Affected Systems and Versions

Systems using Jenkins Mashup Portlets Plugin versions 1.1.2 and earlier are vulnerable to CVE-2023-28679. It is crucial for organizations to identify and patch these versions to mitigate the risk.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-28679 involves an authenticated attacker leveraging the "Generic JS Portlet" feature in the vulnerable plugin to insert a malicious JavaScript expression, leading to a cross-site scripting vulnerability.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-28679, organizations should take immediate steps and implement long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the Jenkins Mashup Portlets Plugin to a non-vulnerable version.
Monitor for any suspicious activities or unauthorized access related to the vulnerability.
Educate users on safe plugin usage and the importance of XSS prevention.

Long-Term Security Practices

Conduct regular security assessments and vulnerability scans on Jenkins plugins.
Enforce the principle of least privilege to restrict unnecessary permissions.
Stay informed about security advisories and updates from Jenkins Project to address vulnerabilities promptly.

Patching and Updates

It is essential for organizations to apply available patches and updates provided by the vendor to address CVE-2023-28679 effectively. Regularly updating plugins and software is crucial for maintaining a secure environment and safeguarding against potential threats.