CVE-2007-2391 in Safari
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Apple Safari Beta 3.0.1 for Windows allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via a web page that includes a windows.setTimeout function that is activated after the user has moved from the current page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/21/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2391 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw in Apple Safari Beta 3.0.1 for Windows operating systems. This security weakness falls under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting, specifically manifesting as a stored XSS vulnerability that exploits the browser's handling of JavaScript execution contexts. The flaw occurs when a malicious web page contains a windows.setTimeout function that executes after a user navigates away from the page and subsequently returns, creating a window of opportunity for attackers to inject arbitrary web scripts or HTML content.
The technical mechanism behind this vulnerability exploits Safari's event handling and script execution model in the Windows environment. When users browse to a malicious webpage containing a crafted setTimeout function, the browser defers execution of the malicious script until a later time when the user returns to the page. This timing aspect creates a unique attack vector where the malicious code can execute in the context of the user's session, potentially capturing sensitive information or performing unauthorized actions. The vulnerability specifically affects the Windows version of Safari Beta 3.0.1, indicating that the issue was related to platform-specific implementation details in the browser's JavaScript engine and event processing mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it allows attackers to execute malicious code within the context of the user's browser session. This can lead to session hijacking, credential theft, data exfiltration, and other malicious activities that compromise user security and privacy. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal user interaction beyond normal browsing behavior, making it particularly dangerous in real-world scenarios. Users who visit compromised websites and subsequently return to them later become targets for this attack, creating a persistent threat vector that can be leveraged for extended periods.
Security practitioners should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability, including browser updates and patches, web application firewalls, and user education about safe browsing practices. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1566 - Phishing and T1059 - Command and Scripting Interpreter, highlighting the need for both technical controls and user awareness training. Organizations should prioritize immediate patching of affected Safari versions and consider implementing content security policies to prevent execution of unauthorized scripts. Additionally, network monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious script execution patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of thorough testing of browser security features, particularly in beta software releases where security flaws may not yet be fully identified or addressed.