CVE-2018-19583 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE involves a vulnerability in GitLab CE/EE versions 8.0 up to 11.x before 11.3.11, 11.4 before 11.4.8, and 11.5 before 11.5.1, where access tokens were being logged in the Workhorse logs, potentially exposing sensitive information.

Understanding CVE-2018-19583

This CVE highlights a security issue in GitLab CE/EE versions that could allow unauthorized access to user access tokens.

What is CVE-2018-19583?

The vulnerability in GitLab CE/EE versions allowed administrators with access to the logs to view the access token of another user, posing a significant security risk.

The Impact of CVE-2018-19583

The exposure of access tokens in the logs could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive user information and potential misuse of user accounts.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-19583

This section provides more in-depth technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

Access tokens in the Workhorse logs of affected GitLab versions were logged, enabling administrators to view another user's access token.

Affected Systems and Versions

GitLab CE/EE versions 8.0 up to 11.x before 11.3.11, 11.4 before 11.4.8, and 11.5 before 11.5.1.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allowed administrators with access to the logs to exploit the issue and view access tokens of other users, potentially compromising user accounts.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from this vulnerability requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade GitLab CE/EE to versions 11.3.11, 11.4.8, or 11.5.1 to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor access to logs and restrict permissions to prevent unauthorized access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement access controls and regular security audits to detect and prevent similar vulnerabilities.
Educate administrators on secure logging practices and the importance of protecting sensitive information.

Patching and Updates

Regularly apply security patches and updates provided by GitLab to address known vulnerabilities and enhance system security.