CVE-2019-5474 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A problem regarding authorization has been identified in GitLab EE versions below 12.1.2, below 12.0.4, and below 11.11.6. This issue enables the overriding of merge request approval rules without the required permissions.

Understanding CVE-2019-5474

An authorization issue was discovered in GitLab EE versions below 12.1.2, below 12.0.4, and below 11.11.6, allowing the merge request approval rules to be overridden without appropriate permissions.

What is CVE-2019-5474?

CWE-284: Improper Access Control - Generic (CWE-284)

The Impact of CVE-2019-5474

The vulnerability allows unauthorized users to override merge request approval rules, potentially leading to unauthorized actions within GitLab EE instances.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-5474

The following technical details provide insight into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

An authorization issue in GitLab EE versions before 12.1.2, 12.0.4, and 11.11.6 allows unauthorized users to bypass merge request approval rules.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: GitLab EE
Affected Versions:
GitLab EE before 12.1.2
GitLab EE before 12.0.4
GitLab EE before 11.11.6

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating merge request approval rules without the necessary permissions, potentially gaining unauthorized access.

Mitigation and Prevention

Taking immediate steps and implementing long-term security practices are crucial to mitigating the risks associated with CVE-2019-5474.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade GitLab EE to version 12.1.2 or later to address the vulnerability.
Monitor merge request activities for any unauthorized changes.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update access control policies within GitLab EE.
Conduct security training for users to raise awareness of proper authorization practices.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by GitLab promptly to ensure the latest security fixes are in place.