CVE-2023-5356 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A security vulnerability has been identified as CVE-2023-5356 in GitLab, impacting versions starting from 8.13 before 16.5.6, versions starting from 16.6 before 16.6.4, and versions starting from 16.7 before 16.7.2. This vulnerability allows a user to abuse slack/mattermost integrations to execute slash commands as another user. The CVE was published on January 12, 2024, by GitLab.

Understanding CVE-2023-5356

This section provides an overview of the CVE-2023-5356 vulnerability, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-5356?

CVE-2023-5356 is categorized as an incorrect authorization vulnerability in GitLab CE/EE. It arises from flawed authorization checks, enabling a user to exploit slack/mattermost integrations to execute slash commands impersonating another user.

The Impact of CVE-2023-5356

The vulnerability poses a significant risk as it allows unauthorized users to leverage integrations for executing commands on behalf of another user within the GitLab environment, potentially leading to unauthorized activities and data breaches.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-5356

Detailed technical information regarding the vulnerability, affected systems, and exploitation mechanisms.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is attributed to incorrect authorization checks within GitLab CE/EE, allowing users to misuse slack/mattermost integrations to execute commands as a different user, bypassing intended access controls.

Affected Systems and Versions

GitLab versions 8.13 to 16.5.6, 16.6 to 16.6.4, and 16.7 to 16.7.2 are affected by this vulnerability, making users susceptible to unauthorized command executions via slack/mattermost integrations.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting this vulnerability involves abusing the slack/mattermost integrations in affected GitLab versions to manipulate slash commands and execute actions on behalf of another user, undermining access restrictions.

Mitigation and Prevention

Strategies to mitigate the CVE-2023-5356 vulnerability and prevent potential security risks.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to upgrade their GitLab installations to versions 16.7.2, 16.6.4, 16.5.6, or newer to address the vulnerability promptly and prevent unauthorized command executions.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing robust authorization controls, regularly monitoring integrations, and conducting security assessments can enhance overall security posture and prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in the future.

Patching and Updates

Regularly applying security patches, staying informed about security advisories from GitLab, and maintaining up-to-date software versions are crucial steps to ensure the ongoing protection of GitLab deployments from security threats.