CVE-2025-53656 identifies a security vulnerability in the Jenkins ReadyAPI Functional Testing Plugin versions 1.11 and earlier, where sensitive credentials including SLM License Access Keys, client secrets, and passwords are stored in plaintext within job configuration files (config.xml) on the Jenkins controller. These files are accessible to users with Item/Extended Read permissions or anyone with file system access to the Jenkins controller, exposing critical secrets without encryption. The vulnerability stems from improper credential management practices (CWE-256), specifically the failure to encrypt or securely store sensitive data. The attack vector is network-based (AV:N), requiring low attack complexity (AC:L) but limited privileges (PR:L) on Jenkins. No user interaction is needed (UI:N), and the vulnerability affects confidentiality (C:H) but not integrity or availability. This exposure could allow attackers or unauthorized users to extract credentials, potentially leading to lateral movement, privilege escalation, or unauthorized access to integrated systems and licenses. While no public exploits are known yet, the risk is significant given Jenkins’ widespread use in continuous integration and delivery pipelines. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure credential storage and access control within CI/CD environments.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to the confidentiality of sensitive credentials used in automated testing and licensing within Jenkins environments. Exposure of license keys and client secrets can lead to unauthorized use of licensed software, financial losses, and potential compliance violations under regulations like GDPR if personal or sensitive data is indirectly compromised. Attackers gaining access to these secrets could pivot within the network, accessing other critical systems integrated with Jenkins, thereby increasing the attack surface. Organizations with shared Jenkins controllers or large development teams are particularly vulnerable, as more users may have Item/Extended Read permissions. The impact is heightened in sectors with stringent security requirements such as finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure prevalent in Europe. Although integrity and availability are not directly affected, the breach of confidentiality can undermine trust and lead to operational disruptions if exploited.

To mitigate CVE-2025-53656, European organizations should immediately audit and restrict Jenkins permissions, ensuring that only trusted users have Item/Extended Read access to job configurations. Implement strict file system access controls on the Jenkins controller to prevent unauthorized file reads. Until a vendor patch is released, consider removing or upgrading the Jenkins ReadyAPI Functional Testing Plugin to a version that securely handles credential storage. Employ secrets management solutions integrated with Jenkins, such as HashiCorp Vault or Jenkins Credentials Plugin, to avoid storing plaintext secrets in config files. Regularly rotate exposed credentials and license keys to limit the window of exploitation. Monitor Jenkins logs and access patterns for unusual activity indicative of credential harvesting. Finally, educate development and DevOps teams on secure credential handling and the risks of storing sensitive data in plaintext within CI/CD pipelines.