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5.3

GitLab image handling may overload server CPU

CVE-2021-39907 · published 5 years ago
Summary

GitLab Community and Enterprise editions from version 13.7 onward can use excessive processor power when it removes hidden camera information from certain uploaded pictures. This can make the server slow or temporarily unavailable. Upgrade to the latest GitLab release or turn off the automatic removal of this hidden data to stop the problem.

What to do

The CVE record does not list a fixed version. Check the vendor's site or the advisory links below - a fix may already be released.

Affected software
VendorProductAffected versions
gitlab gitlab >= 13.7.0, < 14.2.6
>= 14.3.0, < 14.3.4
>= 14.4.0, < 14.4.1
cpe:2.3:a:gitlab:gitlab:*:*:*:*:community:*:*:*
Original advisory text
A potential DOS vulnerability was discovered in GitLab CE/EE starting with version 13.7. The stripping of EXIF data from certain images resulted in high CPU usage.
A potential DOS vulnerability was discovered in GitLab CE/EE starting with version 13.7. The stripping of EXIF data from certain images resulted in high CPU usage.
References
Fix within
Internet-facing 14 days
Internal 60 days
  • Not known to be exploited
  • Can be exploited automatically (estimated)
  • Gives an attacker partial control (estimated)
Severity
5.3 Medium
Exploitation
1% chance of attack within 30 days
Type
CWE-770Allocation of Resources Without Limits
Timeline
Published5 Nov 2021
Updated31 Oct 2026
First seen23 Aug 2026
Sources
CVE-2021-39907 · OSV
CVE-2021-39907 · NVD
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