CVE-2020-13316 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in GitLab versions before 13.1.10, 13.2.8, and 13.3.4 allowed unauthorized access to disabled repositories via a git command line.

Understanding CVE-2020-13316

This CVE involves improper authorization in GitLab, impacting versions prior to 13.1.10, 13.2.8, and 13.3.4.

What is CVE-2020-13316?

The vulnerability in GitLab versions before 13.1.10, 13.2.8, and 13.3.4 allowed disabled repositories to be accessed via a git command line.

The Impact of CVE-2020-13316

CVSS Score: 5.4 (Medium Severity)
Attack Vector: Network
Attack Complexity: Low
Confidentiality Impact: Low
Integrity Impact: Low
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: None
Scope: Unchanged
Availability Impact: None

Technical Details of CVE-2020-13316

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

GitLab did not validate a Deploy-Token, allowing unauthorized access to disabled repositories via a git command line.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: GitLab
Vendor: GitLab
Vulnerable Versions:
=1.0, <13.1.10

=13.2, <13.2.8

=13.3, <13.3.4

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers could exploit this vulnerability by leveraging the lack of validation of Deploy-Tokens in GitLab.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2020-13316 with these mitigation strategies.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update GitLab to versions 13.1.10, 13.2.8, or 13.3.4 or later to patch the vulnerability.
Monitor repository access and review permissions to prevent unauthorized access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update access controls and permissions within GitLab.
Conduct security audits to identify and address any authorization issues.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches promptly to ensure your GitLab instance is protected from known vulnerabilities.