Jenkins, a widely used automation server, has a high-severity vulnerability designated as CVE-2024-23898. This vulnerability allows attackers to execute CLI commands on the Jenkins controller through cross-site WebSocket hijacking. The affected versions include Jenkins 2.217 through 2.441 and LTS versions 2.222.1 through 2.426.2.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 8.8, indicating a high severity level. Organizations utilizing vulnerable versions of Jenkins are at significant risk, as the lack of origin validation for CLI WebSocket requests could be exploited to gain unauthorized access.
Risk to organizations includes potential CLI command execution, leading to severe impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. As such, organizations should prioritize patching immediately.
Exploitation status indicates that a known exploit exists. Organizations must act swiftly to mitigate exposure and potential attacks.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability arises from Jenkins not performing origin validation of requests made through the CLI WebSocket endpoint. This design flaw allows attackers to hijack WebSocket connections and execute commands on the Jenkins controller.
The CVSS vector string is CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H, confirming high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts. The vulnerability was published on January 24, 2024.
CWE-346, indicative of a cross-site WebSocket hijacking vulnerability, applies here.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability is the inadequate validation of the origin of WebSocket requests in Jenkins. The attack vector is primarily network-based, requiring low complexity for successful exploitation.
The exploitation requires no special privileges, but user interaction is necessary to initiate the WebSocket connection. This makes the attack feasible against users who are logged into Jenkins.
The impact of exploitation can result in a complete compromise of the Jenkins controller, severely affecting confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Real-world deployment risk is significant for organizations using the affected Jenkins versions. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary commands, potentially leading to data breaches, service disruptions, and compromise of sensitive information.
The urgency for addressing this vulnerability is high, given the potential blast radius and the fact that known exploits exist. Organizations should assess their exposure and prioritize remediation efforts.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | Yes |
Public PoC | Yes |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The affected versions are Jenkins 2.217 through 2.441 and LTS versions 2.222.1 through 2.426.2. Organizations running these versions should take immediate action to mitigate risks.
Mitigation & Remediation
To mitigate this vulnerability, organizations should upgrade to the latest version of Jenkins. For those unable to upgrade, disabling the CLI WebSocket endpoint can serve as a temporary workaround. Regularly reviewing and applying patches is essential for maintaining security.
Organizations should validate remediation through penetration testing to identify similar weaknesses.
Detection Guidance
Monitoring for unusual WebSocket activity and CLI command execution can help detect potential exploitation. Organizations should review logs for unauthorized access attempts and implement network controls to restrict access to the Jenkins controller.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
This vulnerability highlights a critical aspect of web application security; proper validation of origins for WebSocket connections is essential. Security teams must remain vigilant in identifying and mitigating similar vulnerabilities in their environments.
To improve security posture, organizations should establish a comprehensive vulnerability management program that includes regular assessments and updates.
Additionally, leveraging tactics such as penetration testing methodology can uncover hidden vulnerabilities.
Finally, understanding the implications of vulnerabilities such as this one ensures proactive measures can be taken to safeguard systems against future threats.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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