CVE-2019-5469 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A security flaw in GitLab versions prior to 12.1.2, 12.0.4, and 11.11.6 allows an IDOR vulnerability, enabling attackers to upload files from a project archive and potentially replace files of other users.

Understanding CVE-2019-5469

This CVE involves an Insecure Direct Object Reference (IDOR) vulnerability in GitLab.

What is CVE-2019-5469?

An IDOR vulnerability in GitLab versions before 12.1.2, 12.0.4, and 11.11.6 allows attackers to upload files from a project archive, potentially replacing files of other users, leading to the replacement of project binaries or other uploaded assets.

The Impact of CVE-2019-5469

This vulnerability could result in unauthorized access and modification of files, compromising the integrity and confidentiality of data stored in affected GitLab instances.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-5469

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The IDOR vulnerability in GitLab versions prior to 12.1.2, 12.0.4, and 11.11.6 allows attackers to upload files from a project archive, potentially replacing files of other users.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: GitLab
Versions Affected: Fixed versions 12.1.2, 12.0.4, and 11.11.6

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit this vulnerability by uploading files from a project archive to replace files belonging to other users, potentially compromising project binaries and other uploaded assets.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-5469 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update GitLab to the fixed versions 12.1.2, 12.0.4, or 11.11.6 to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor file uploads and user activities to detect any unauthorized file replacements.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement access controls to restrict file upload and modification permissions.
Conduct regular security assessments and audits to identify and address vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Regularly apply security patches and updates provided by GitLab to ensure the ongoing protection of the system.