CVE-2019-7628 : Security Advisory and Response

Pagure 5.2 leaks API keys through email, potentially allowing unauthorized access to the system.

Understanding CVE-2019-7628

Pagure 5.2 exposes API keys through email communication, posing a security risk for unauthorized access.

What is CVE-2019-7628?

The vulnerability in Pagure 5.2 arises from the leakage of API keys when they are sent via email to users.
Most email servers do not validate TLS certificates, enabling attackers to intercept these emails and gain unauthorized access to Pagure on behalf of other users.
Disabling the API token expiration reminder cron job in files/api_key_expire_mail.py can mitigate this issue.

The Impact of CVE-2019-7628

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to intercept API keys sent via email and gain unauthorized access to Pagure, compromising user accounts and potentially sensitive information.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-7628

Pagure 5.2 vulnerability details and affected systems.

Vulnerability Description

Pagure 5.2 leaks API keys by emailing them to users, making it susceptible to man-in-the-middle attacks.
The issue lies in the API token expiration reminder cron job in files/api_key_expire_mail.py.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: N/A
Vendor: N/A
Version: N/A

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the lack of TLS certificate validation by email servers to intercept API keys sent via email, gaining unauthorized access to Pagure.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2019-7628 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable the API token expiration reminder cron job in files/api_key_expire_mail.py.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement TLS certificate validation for email servers.
Regularly review and update email security protocols.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches or updates provided by Pagure to address the vulnerability and enhance system security.