CVE-2021-22249 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A verbose error message in GitLab EE affecting all versions since 12.2 could disclose the private email address of a user invited to a group.

Understanding CVE-2021-22249

This CVE affects GitLab versions between 12.2 and 14.1.2, potentially exposing users' private email addresses due to a verbose error message vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-22249?

The vulnerability in GitLab EE could lead to the disclosure of private email addresses when a user is invited to a group, impacting user privacy and security.

The Impact of CVE-2021-22249

The impact of this CVE is rated as medium severity with a CVSS base score of 4.3. It could pose a risk to user confidentiality through information exposure.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-22249

This CVE has the following metrics:

CVSS Score: 4.3 (Medium)
Attack Vector: Network
Attack Complexity: Low
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: None
Scope: Unchanged
Confidentiality Impact: Low
Integrity Impact: None
Availability Impact: None

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows a verbose error message to disclose private email addresses when a user is added to a group in GitLab EE versions 12.2 to 14.1.2.

Affected Systems and Versions

GitLab versions affected include >=12.2, <13.12.9, >=14.0, <14.0.7, and >=14.1, <14.1.2.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting this vulnerability requires network access, and a low level of complexity and privileges, without needing user interaction.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard your systems:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update GitLab to versions 13.12.9, 14.0.7, or 14.1.2 to patch the vulnerability.
Ensure sensitive user information is handled securely.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor for security updates and apply patches promptly.
Educate users on safe practices to prevent information exposure.

Patching and Updates

Apply the latest patches from GitLab to mitigate the risk of email address exposure and enhance overall system security.