CVE-2023-7028 : Security Advisory and Response

An issue has been discovered in GitLab CE/EE affecting multiple versions, where user account password reset emails could be delivered to an unverified email address.

Understanding CVE-2023-7028

This CVE identifies an improper access control vulnerability in GitLab, impacting various versions prior to specific releases.

What is CVE-2023-7028?

The CVE-2023-7028 vulnerability in GitLab allows the delivery of user account password reset emails to unverified email addresses, potentially leading to unauthorized access to user accounts.

The Impact of CVE-2023-7028

With a CVSS base score of 10 out of 10, this critical vulnerability poses a high risk to confidentiality and integrity, making it crucial for affected users to take immediate action to mitigate the threat.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-7028

This vulnerability is classified under CWE-284: Improper Access Control, indicating a flaw in controlling access to resources within GitLab.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in GitLab versions prior to specific releases allows user account password reset emails to be sent to unverified email addresses, potentially compromising user account security.

Affected Systems and Versions

GitLab versions affected by this vulnerability include 16.1 to 16.7, with specific subversions susceptible to the improper access control issue.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by leveraging the improper delivery of password reset emails to gain unauthorized access to user accounts with unverified email addresses.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial for GitLab users to take immediate steps to address and prevent the CVE-2023-7028 vulnerability from being exploited.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to GitLab versions 16.7.2, 16.6.4, 16.5.6, 16.4.5, 16.3.7, 16.2.9, 16.1.6, or above to patch the vulnerability and enhance security.
Verify and validate all email addresses associated with user accounts to prevent unauthorized access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and update GitLab versions to ensure that security patches are applied promptly.
Educate users on best practices for maintaining account security and verifying email addresses for password resets.

Patching and Updates

GitLab has released patches in versions 16.7.2, 16.6.4, 16.5.6, 16.4.5, 16.3.7, 16.2.9, and 16.1.6 to address the improper access control vulnerability. It is recommended to update to these versions or above to mitigate the risk associated with CVE-2023-7028.