CVE-2018-18648 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2018-18648, a vulnerability in GitLab versions before 11.2.7, 11.3.x before 11.3.8, and 11.4.x before 11.4.3, enabling sensitive information exposure through error messages. Find mitigation steps and preventive measures.
A vulnerability was identified in versions of GitLab Community and Enterprise Edition prior to 11.2.7, 11.3.x before 11.3.8, and 11.4.x before 11.4.3, allowing sensitive information exposure through error messages.
Understanding CVE-2018-18648
This CVE pertains to an information exposure vulnerability in GitLab Community and Enterprise Edition.
What is CVE-2018-18648?
CVE-2018-18648 is a security vulnerability found in GitLab versions before 11.2.7, 11.3.x before 11.3.8, and 11.4.x before 11.4.3, enabling the exposure of sensitive data via error messages.
The Impact of CVE-2018-18648
The vulnerability could lead to the exposure of sensitive information, posing a risk to the confidentiality of data stored and processed within affected GitLab instances.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-18648
This section provides technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The issue in GitLab Community and Enterprise Edition versions before 11.2.7, 11.3.x before 11.3.8, and 11.4.x before 11.4.3 allows for information exposure through error messages.
Affected Systems and Versions
- GitLab Community and Enterprise Edition versions prior to 11.2.7
- GitLab Community and Enterprise Edition 11.3.x before 11.3.8
- GitLab Community and Enterprise Edition 11.4.x before 11.4.3
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by triggering specific error conditions that result in the exposure of sensitive information.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2018-18648 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update GitLab instances to versions 11.2.7, 11.3.8, or 11.4.3 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Monitor error messages and ensure they do not reveal sensitive data.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update GitLab to the latest versions to patch security vulnerabilities.
- Implement data loss prevention measures to safeguard sensitive information.
Patching and Updates
- Apply security patches promptly to address known vulnerabilities and enhance system security.