CVE-2025-53659 is a security vulnerability identified in the Jenkins QMetry Test Management Plugin version 1.13 and earlier. The vulnerability arises because the plugin stores QMetry Automation API Keys unencrypted within the job configuration files (config.xml) on the Jenkins controller. These configuration files are typically stored on the Jenkins master node's file system. Because the API keys are stored in plaintext, any user with Item/Extended Read permissions within Jenkins or any actor with access to the Jenkins controller's file system can view these sensitive credentials. The exposure of API keys can lead to unauthorized access to QMetry Automation services, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate test management data, execute unauthorized automation tasks, or pivot to other systems integrated with QMetry. This vulnerability does not require user interaction beyond having read permissions or file system access, which may be granted to various Jenkins users or potentially compromised insiders. The vulnerability is classified as a data exposure issue due to improper handling of sensitive credentials. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, and there are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication. However, the risk remains significant given the sensitive nature of API keys and the widespread use of Jenkins in continuous integration and delivery pipelines.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be substantial, especially for those heavily reliant on Jenkins for CI/CD workflows and using the QMetry Test Management Plugin. Exposure of API keys can lead to unauthorized access to test automation environments, manipulation or deletion of test data, and disruption of automated testing processes. This can degrade software quality assurance, delay release cycles, and potentially introduce faulty software into production environments. Furthermore, if attackers leverage these credentials to access other integrated systems or escalate privileges, it could lead to broader compromise within the organization's IT infrastructure. Organizations in regulated sectors such as finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure may face compliance risks and reputational damage if sensitive data or operational integrity is compromised. Since Jenkins is often used in development environments, the vulnerability could also be a vector for supply chain attacks, impacting software delivered to customers or partners.

To mitigate this vulnerability, organizations should immediately upgrade the Jenkins QMetry Test Management Plugin to a version that addresses this issue once available. In the interim, restrict Item/Extended Read permissions strictly to trusted users only, minimizing the number of users who can view job configurations. Additionally, limit access to the Jenkins controller file system to authorized personnel and enforce strict file system permissions. Consider rotating any exposed QMetry Automation API keys and revoking those that may have been compromised. Implement secrets management solutions that integrate with Jenkins to avoid storing sensitive credentials in plaintext within job configurations. Monitoring and auditing Jenkins user activities and file system access can help detect unauthorized attempts to access sensitive information. Finally, educate development and operations teams about the risks of storing credentials insecurely and promote best practices for credential management within CI/CD pipelines.