CVE-2023-4008 : Security Advisory and Response

An issue has been discovered in GitLab CE/EE that affects multiple versions, allowing attackers to potentially take over GitLab Pages with unique domain URLs if they have knowledge of the random string added.

Understanding CVE-2023-4008

This CVE involves a Time-of-check Time-of-use (TOCTOU) Race Condition vulnerability in GitLab, impacting versions 15.9 before 16.0.8, 16.1 before 16.1.3, and 16.2 before 16.2.2.

What is CVE-2023-4008?

The CVE-2023-4008 vulnerability in GitLab involves a race condition that could be exploited to take over GitLab Pages by using unique domain URLs along with specific knowledge of added random strings.

The Impact of CVE-2023-4008

If successfully exploited, this vulnerability could allow unauthorized individuals to potentially take control of GitLab Pages, compromising the integrity and security of the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-4008

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE, including the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises due to a Time-of-check Time-of-use (TOCTOU) Race Condition in GitLab, which enables attackers to manipulate the system to potentially take control of GitLab Pages with unique domain URLs.

Affected Systems and Versions

GitLab versions 15.9 before 16.0.8, 16.1 before 16.1.3, and 16.2 before 16.2.2 are affected by this CVE, making systems running these versions vulnerable to exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging the TOCTOU race condition, threat actors could exploit the vulnerability to gain access to GitLab Pages with unique domain URLs by utilizing known random strings.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard systems from CVE-2023-4008, it is crucial to implement immediate actions and adhere to long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to upgrade their GitLab installations to versions 16.2.2, 16.1.3, 16.0.8, or above to mitigate the risks posed by this vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

In addition to patching the system, organizations should follow security best practices, such as regular security updates, implementing access controls, and conducting security assessments to enhance overall system security.

Patching and Updates

Regularly updating GitLab to the latest versions, such as 16.2.2, 16.1.3, or 16.0.8, will ensure that the TOCTOU race condition vulnerability is addressed, reducing the likelihood of exploitation.