CVE-2021-22263 : Security Advisory and Response

An overview of the privilege elevation vulnerability in GitLab versions 13.0 to 14.2.2, allowing users to access Internal projects.

Understanding CVE-2021-22263

This CVE highlights an improper privilege management issue in GitLab versions, enabling 'external' users with specific roles to gain access to 'Internal' projects.

What is CVE-2021-22263?

GitLab versions ranging from 13.0 to 14.2.2 are impacted by a vulnerability where users with 'Maintainer' role can escalate privileges to access 'Internal' projects.

The Impact of CVE-2021-22263

The vulnerability allows unauthorized users to view sensitive information and perform actions within 'Internal' projects, posing a risk to data confidentiality.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-22263

Exploring the vulnerability details including affected systems, versions, and exploitation mechanisms.

Vulnerability Description

The issue in GitLab versions enables users with 'external' status and 'Maintainer' role to elevate privileges to 'Internal,' gaining unauthorized access to 'Internal' projects.

Affected Systems and Versions

GitLab versions from 13.0 to 14.2.2 are affected by this privilege escalation vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging the 'project tokens' feature, an attacker can manipulate their status to gain elevated privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

Guidelines on addressing the CVE and preventing potential security risks in GitLab instances.

Immediate Steps to Take

Ensure to update GitLab to versions 14.0.9, 14.1.4, or 14.2.2 to patch the vulnerability and restrict user access accordingly.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and manage user roles, permissions, and access controls in GitLab to prevent similar privilege escalation risks.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by GitLab to address known vulnerabilities and enhance system security.