CVE-2019-12441 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability has been identified in GitLab Community and Enterprise Edition versions 8.4 through 11.11, allowing a circumvention of restrictions on protected branches due to an access control flaw.

Understanding CVE-2019-12441

This CVE involves an Incorrect Access Control issue in GitLab versions 8.4 through 11.11, impacting the protected branches functionality.

What is CVE-2019-12441?

This vulnerability in GitLab's Community and Enterprise Edition versions 8.4 through 11.11 allows unauthorized users to bypass restrictions on protected branches due to a flaw in the access control mechanism.

The Impact of CVE-2019-12441

The vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access and modifications to protected branches, potentially compromising the integrity and security of the codebase.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-12441

GitLab versions 8.4 through 11.11 are affected by this vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in the access control mechanism of the protected branches feature allows unauthorized users to circumvent branch restrictions.

Affected Systems and Versions

GitLab Community Edition 8.4 through 11.11
GitLab Enterprise Edition 8.4 through 11.11

Exploitation Mechanism

Unauthorized users can exploit this vulnerability to gain access to and make changes in protected branches, potentially compromising the codebase.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update GitLab to a patched version that addresses the access control issue.
Review and adjust branch protection settings to ensure proper access control.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit branch access controls and permissions.
Educate users on secure coding practices and branch management.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by GitLab to fix the access control flaw in protected branches.