CVE-2022-1423 : Security Advisory and Response
Critical CVE-2022-1423 in GitLab CE/EE versions allows malicious actors to execute arbitrary code in protected branches. Learn about the impact, affected versions, and mitigation steps.
GitLab CE/EE versions starting from 1.0.2 before 14.8.6, 14.9.0 before 14.9.4, and 14.10.0 before 14.10.1 are vulnerable to improper access control in the CI/CD cache mechanism, allowing malicious actors to execute arbitrary code in protected branches.
Understanding CVE-2022-1423
This CVE identifies a critical vulnerability in GitLab affecting various versions with implications for unauthorized access and code execution.
What is CVE-2022-1423?
The vulnerability involves improper access control in the CI/CD cache mechanism in GitLab CE/EE. Attackers with Developer privileges can exploit this to perform cache poisoning, leading to the execution of arbitrary code within protected branches.
The Impact of CVE-2022-1423
With a CVSS base score of 7.1 (High Severity), this vulnerability poses a significant threat. The attack complexity is high, and unauthorized access can compromise confidentiality.
Technical Details of CVE-2022-1423
This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows attackers with Developer privileges to perform cache poisoning in the CI/CD cache mechanism, which can result in executing arbitrary code within protected branches.
Affected Systems and Versions
GitLab CE/EE versions starting from 1.0.2 before 14.8.6, 14.9.0 before 14.9.4, and 14.10.0 before 14.10.1 are impacted by this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers exploit this vulnerability by gaining Developer access and manipulating the CI/CD cache mechanism, leading to arbitrary code execution.
Mitigation and Prevention
To safeguard systems from CVE-2022-1423, immediate steps must be taken alongside long-term security practices and timely patching.
Immediate Steps to Take
Administrators should restrict access levels, monitor for unusual activities, and apply least privilege principles to mitigate the risk.
Long-Term Security Practices
Regular security audits, employee training on best practices, and maintaining up-to-date security policies are imperative for long-term protection.
Patching and Updates
GitLab users are advised to update their software to versions 14.8.6, 14.9.4, and 14.10.1 to patch the vulnerability and secure their systems.