CVE-2020-26406 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in GitLab EE versions 13.3 to 13.5.2 allowed unauthorized users to access certain SAST CiConfiguration information, potentially exposing sensitive data.

Understanding CVE-2020-26406

This CVE highlights an information exposure issue in GitLab EE, impacting versions 13.3 to 13.5.2.

What is CVE-2020-26406?

The vulnerability in GitLab EE allowed unauthorized users to view specific SAST CiConfiguration information starting from version 13.3.

The Impact of CVE-2020-26406

The exposure of sensitive information through GraphQL to unauthorized users posed a risk of data leakage and potential misuse.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-26406

This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

Certain SAST CiConfiguration information could be accessed by unauthorized users in GitLab EE versions 13.3 to 13.5.2.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: GitLab EE
Vendor: GitLab
Affected Versions: >=13.3, <13.3.9, >=13.4, <13.4.5, >=13.5, <13.5.2

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allowed unauthorized access to sensitive information through GraphQL, affecting non-members of public projects with restricted repository visibility and guest members on private projects.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-26406 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update GitLab EE to versions 13.3.9, 13.4.5, or 13.5.2 to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor and restrict access to sensitive information within GitLab.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update access controls and permissions within GitLab.
Conduct security training to educate users on data protection best practices.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by GitLab promptly to address vulnerabilities and enhance system security.