CVE-2021-39915 : What You Need to Know

CVE-2021-39915, affecting GitLab, involves improper access control in the GraphQL API. Attackers can view project access token names on arbitrary projects.

Understanding CVE-2021-39915

This CVE details a security vulnerability in GitLab's GraphQL API that allows unauthorized access to project access token names.

What is CVE-2021-39915?

The vulnerability is due to improper access control in the GraphQL API of GitLab CE/EE, impacting versions from 13.0 to 14.5.2.

The Impact of CVE-2021-39915

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 5.3 (Medium severity), allowing attackers to see project access token names on arbitrary projects.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-39915

This section covers the technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability involves improper access control in the GitLab GraphQL API, affecting versions between 13.0 and 14.5.2.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: GitLab
Vendor: GitLab
Vulnerable Versions:
=13.0, <14.3.6

=14.4, <14.4.4

=14.5, <14.5.2

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allows attackers to exploit the GraphQL API to access project access token names on unauthorized projects.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2021-39915 by following these recommendations.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update GitLab instances to versions 14.3.6, 14.4.4, or 14.5.2 to patch the vulnerability.
Monitor and restrict access to sensitive project information.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update access controls on GitLab instances.
Educate users on secure API usage and data protection practices.
Implement multi-factor authentication for enhanced security.

Patching and Updates

Apply the necessary patches and updates provided by GitLab to eliminate the vulnerability.