GitLab Runner Authentication Token was detected in code

Rule Details

Cortex AppSec Rule ID	APPSEC_SECRET_324
Category	Secrets
Severity	HIGH
Framework	Git

Impact

The GitLab Runner Authentication Token connects a build agent to the GitLab instance.

Exposure is a High Risk allowing an attacker to register a "rogue runner" that intercepts legitimate build jobs, stealing environment variables and secrets meant for production deployments.

How to Fix

To remediate exposed Source Control or CI/CD tokens:

1. Log in to the relevant system or provider.
2. Navigate to the settings menu to locate the exposed credential.
3. Revoke or delete the compromised token immediately.
4. Generate a new token if continued access is required.
5. Update any dependent systems or services with the new credential.

Next, remove the secret from your codebase:

1. Locate the exposed secret in your codebase.
2. Replace the hardcoded value with a secure variable or reference.

Finally, clean your version control history:

1. Permanently remove the sensitive data from your version control history to ensure it cannot be retrieved.