CVE-2007-1565 in Konqueror
Summary
by MITRE
Konqueror 3.5.5 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) by using JavaScript to read a child iframe having an ftp:// URI.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/27/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-1565 represents a denial of service weakness in Konqueror web browser version 3.5.5 that stems from improper handling of JavaScript interactions with iframe elements containing ftp:// URIs. This issue falls under the category of improper input validation and resource management flaws that can be exploited to disrupt normal browser operations. The vulnerability specifically manifests when JavaScript code attempts to access or read the content of a child iframe that references an ftp protocol URI, leading to an unexpected crash of the browser application. Such a flaw demonstrates a critical weakness in the browser's security architecture and resource handling mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the interaction between JavaScript execution and the browser's iframe handling capabilities. When a web page contains JavaScript code that attempts to access a child iframe with an ftp:// URI, the Konqueror browser fails to properly validate or handle the cross-protocol access attempt. This improper handling causes the browser to enter an unstable state where it crashes or becomes unresponsive. The flaw is particularly concerning because it can be triggered through standard web page content without requiring any special privileges or complex exploitation techniques. The vulnerability demonstrates a lack of proper boundary checking and resource management when dealing with different URI protocols within the browser's rendering engine. According to CWE classification, this represents a weakness in resource management where the system fails to properly handle or validate external resource access patterns.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to users who may encounter malicious web pages designed to exploit this flaw. The denial of service condition can be triggered automatically when visiting compromised websites, potentially disrupting user productivity and creating security concerns. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to create persistent disruptions in browser sessions, potentially affecting business operations or user experience. The vulnerability's impact is particularly severe because it can be exploited through standard web browsing activities without requiring any special user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website. This makes it an attractive target for attackers seeking to disrupt browser operations or create conditions for more sophisticated attacks. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper protocol handling and input validation in web browser implementations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and resource management within the browser's iframe handling code. Browser vendors should ensure that all URI protocols are properly validated before attempting to access or render content from external sources. The recommended approach includes implementing strict protocol checking mechanisms that prevent cross-protocol access attempts that could lead to resource exhaustion or system instability. Additionally, implementing proper error handling and recovery mechanisms can help prevent crashes from occurring when invalid or unexpected URI references are encountered. Security patches should include enhanced validation of iframe content and proper isolation of different protocol access attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing browser hardening measures and keeping browser versions up to date with the latest security patches. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper resource management and protocol validation in web browser security architectures. The flaw demonstrates how seemingly simple interactions between JavaScript and iframe elements can lead to serious system stability issues and underscores the need for comprehensive security testing of browser components.