CVE-2021-21613 : Security Advisory and Response

Jenkins TICS Plugin version 2020.3.0.6 and earlier is affected by a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability due to insufficient escaping of TICS service responses. Attackers controlling TICS service response content can exploit this issue.

Understanding CVE-2021-21613

This section will cover the details of the CVE-2021-21613 vulnerability, its impact, technical aspects, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2021-21613?

CVE-2021-21613 is a security vulnerability found in Jenkins TICS Plugin version 2020.3.0.6 and earlier. It is classified as a CWE-79: Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation ('Cross-site Scripting') vulnerability.

The Impact of CVE-2021-21613

The vulnerability allows attackers with control over TICS service response content to execute cross-site scripting attacks, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, and other security risks.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-21613

Here we delve into the specifics of the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems, and how it can be exploited.

Vulnerability Description

Jenkins TICS Plugin version 2020.3.0.6 and earlier fail to properly escape TICS service responses, making it susceptible to cross-site scripting attacks. This can be leveraged by malicious actors to execute arbitrary code in the context of the user's browser.

Affected Systems and Versions

The specific version impacted by CVE-2021-21613 is Jenkins TICS Plugin <= 2020.3.0.6. Users with this version installed are at risk of exploitation if the TICS service responses are under attacker's control.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating TICS service response content to inject malicious scripts, which are then executed within the context of a victim's web browser.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard systems from CVE-2021-21613, immediate actions and long-term security practices are essential.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update the Jenkins TICS Plugin to a version beyond 2020.3.0.6, as provided patches include the necessary security fixes to mitigate the XSS vulnerability. Additionally, monitoring incoming TICS service responses for suspicious content can help identify potential attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure coding practices, regular security audits, and keeping software up to date are essential for maintaining a robust security posture. Educating developers and users about the risks of XSS attacks can also enhance security awareness.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitoring security advisories from Jenkins and promptly applying patches and updates can help address known vulnerabilities and strengthen the overall security of systems.