CVE-2018-20500 : What You Need to Know

A vulnerability related to inadequate permissions in GitLab Community and Enterprise Edition versions 9.4 to 11.4.13 was discovered, potentially posing a security risk.

Understanding CVE-2018-20500

This CVE highlights a security issue in GitLab versions that could lead to unauthorized access due to a flaw in resetting the runner registration token.

What is CVE-2018-20500?

This CVE identifies an insecure permissions problem in GitLab Community and Enterprise Edition versions 9.4 to 11.4.13, 11.5.x to 11.5.6, and 11.6.x to 11.6.1. The vulnerability prevents the reset of the runner registration token in CI/CD settings.

The Impact of CVE-2018-20500

The vulnerability could allow a maintainer who leaves a group to retain knowledge of the token, potentially leading to unauthorized access and security breaches.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-20500

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The issue in GitLab versions 9.4 to 11.4.13 prevents the reset of the runner registration token, creating a security risk if a maintainer leaves the group and retains the token.

Affected Systems and Versions

GitLab Community and Enterprise Edition versions 9.4 to 11.4.13
GitLab versions 11.5.x to 11.5.6
GitLab versions 11.6.x to 11.6.1

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability arises from the inability to reset the runner registration token, allowing unauthorized access if the token is retained by a departing maintainer.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-20500 is crucial to maintaining security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update GitLab to a patched version that addresses the vulnerability.
Reset the runner registration token if there is a suspicion of unauthorized access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update permissions and access controls in GitLab.
Educate users on the importance of securely managing access tokens and credentials.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by GitLab promptly to mitigate the vulnerability and enhance system security.