CVE-2023-2164 is a stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in GitLab, a widely used web-based DevOps lifecycle tool. The vulnerability affects multiple GitLab versions starting from 15.9 up to versions before 16.0.8, 16.1 before 16.1.3, and 16.2 before 16.2.2. The flaw arises from improper neutralization of input during web page generation, specifically in the WebIDE beta feature. An attacker can craft a malicious URL that, when interacted with by a user, triggers the stored XSS vulnerability. This means that malicious scripts can be injected and stored on the GitLab server, which are then executed in the context of other users' browsers when they access the affected WebIDE component. The vulnerability requires user interaction (clicking the crafted URL) and some level of privileges (PR:L - privileges required: low) but does not require authentication to be exploited remotely (AV:N - attack vector: network). The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.4, indicating a medium severity level. The impact includes limited confidentiality and integrity loss, with no impact on availability. The vulnerability scope is changed (S:C), meaning the attack can affect resources beyond the initially vulnerable component. No known exploits in the wild have been reported yet, and no official patch links are provided in the data, though GitLab has likely addressed this in versions 16.0.8, 16.1.3, and 16.2.2 and later. The CWE classification is CWE-79, which is a common and well-understood XSS category.

For European organizations using GitLab, especially those leveraging the WebIDE beta feature, this vulnerability poses a risk of client-side script injection leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or unauthorized actions performed on behalf of users. Since GitLab is often used for source code management and CI/CD pipelines, exploitation could lead to exposure of sensitive project data or manipulation of development workflows. The medium severity indicates that while the impact is not critical, it can still undermine user trust and lead to data leakage or integrity issues. Organizations with developers or teams frequently using the WebIDE feature are at higher risk. Additionally, the scope change means that the vulnerability could affect other components or users beyond the initially targeted ones, increasing potential damage. The requirement for user interaction somewhat limits automated exploitation but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments where users may be tricked into clicking malicious URLs via phishing or social engineering. Given the widespread adoption of GitLab across Europe in both private and public sectors, the vulnerability could affect a broad range of industries including finance, government, and technology sectors.

European organizations should promptly upgrade affected GitLab instances to versions 16.0.8, 16.1.3, 16.2.2, or later where the vulnerability is patched. Until upgrades are applied, organizations should consider disabling the WebIDE beta feature if feasible to reduce exposure. Implement strict input validation and output encoding on any custom integrations or plugins interacting with GitLab WebIDE to prevent injection of malicious scripts. Educate users about the risks of clicking on untrusted URLs, especially those purporting to be GitLab links. Employ Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to restrict the execution of unauthorized scripts within GitLab web pages. Monitor GitLab logs for suspicious URL access patterns or unusual user interactions that may indicate exploitation attempts. Regularly audit user privileges to ensure minimal necessary access, reducing the impact of potential exploitation. Finally, maintain an incident response plan tailored to web application attacks to quickly identify and remediate any successful exploitation.