CVE-2020-13334 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

GitLab versions prior to 13.2.10, 13.3.7, and 13.4.2 are affected by improper authorization checks allowing unauthorized changes to issue confidentiality via GraphQL queries.

Understanding CVE-2020-13334

This CVE involves a vulnerability in GitLab that could be exploited by non-members of a project/group to alter issue confidentiality settings.

What is CVE-2020-13334?

In GitLab versions before 13.2.10, 13.3.7, and 13.4.2, a flaw in authorization checks permits unauthorized users to modify issue confidentiality through GraphQL queries.

The Impact of CVE-2020-13334

The vulnerability poses a medium-severity risk with a CVSS base score of 5.9, potentially leading to unauthorized disclosure of confidential information.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-13334

This section provides in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

Improper authorization checks in affected GitLab versions enable unauthorized users to change issue confidentiality settings via GraphQL queries.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: GitLab
Vendor: GitLab
Vulnerable Versions:
=8.6, <13.2.10

=13.3.0, <13.3.7

=13.4.0, <13.4.2

Exploitation Mechanism

Unauthorized users can exploit this vulnerability by executing mutation GraphQL queries to alter the confidentiality attribute of an issue.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-13334, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade GitLab to versions 13.2.10, 13.3.7, or 13.4.2 to eliminate the vulnerability.
Monitor and restrict access to sensitive project/group settings.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update access control policies within GitLab.
Conduct security training to educate users on proper issue confidentiality management.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches promptly to ensure the latest fixes and enhancements are in place.