CVE-2007-2398 in Safari
Summary
by MITRE
Apple Safari 3.0.1 beta (522.12.12) on Windows allows remote attackers to modify the window title and address bar while filling the main window with arbitrary content by setting the location bar and using setTimeout() to create an event that modifies the window content, which could facilitate phishing attacks.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/21/2019
This vulnerability in Apple Safari 3.0.1 beta represents a significant security flaw that undermines the browser's user interface integrity and trust model. The issue stems from improper handling of window title and address bar manipulation within the browser's JavaScript execution environment, specifically when the setTimeout() function is employed to schedule content modifications. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious web pages that dynamically alter the browser's visual elements during page loading, creating deceptive user experiences that closely mimic legitimate websites. The vulnerability particularly affects Windows users running the beta version of Safari 3.0.1, where the browser's security boundaries are insufficiently enforced during the page rendering lifecycle. This flaw falls under the category of user interface deception and could be classified as a variant of CWE-1004, which addresses insecure default configurations that can be exploited for malicious purposes.
The technical implementation of this attack vector relies on the browser's JavaScript engine executing setTimeout() commands that modify window properties while the page is still loading or rendering. When Safari processes these commands, it fails to properly validate or restrict modifications to the window title and address bar, allowing attackers to inject arbitrary content into the main browser window. The timing aspect of this vulnerability is crucial as it leverages the window's loading state to execute malicious code that appears legitimate to users. This manipulation can occur during the page transition period when users are most vulnerable to deception, as they may not notice the subtle changes in the address bar or title that indicate a security issue. The attack can be particularly effective in phishing scenarios where the malicious page attempts to replicate the visual appearance of trusted websites by modifying the browser's primary identification elements.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple phishing attempts and represents a fundamental weakness in browser security architecture. Users interacting with compromised web pages may be tricked into believing they are visiting legitimate sites, potentially leading to credential theft, financial fraud, or other malicious activities. The vulnerability's effectiveness stems from its ability to exploit the user's natural trust in browser visual indicators, which are designed to provide security assurance. Security researchers have identified this as a concerning issue that could be weaponized in targeted attacks against unsuspecting users. The threat landscape for this vulnerability includes cybercriminals seeking to leverage the browser's visual deception capabilities to bypass traditional security measures that rely on user recognition of legitimate website elements. This weakness particularly impacts users who may not be aware of browser security features or who trust the visual appearance of web pages without proper verification.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing stricter controls over window property modifications during page loading and rendering. Browser vendors should enforce more rigorous validation of JavaScript commands that affect user interface elements, particularly those that can be manipulated by external code. The recommended approach includes implementing security policies that prevent dynamic modification of address bars and window titles during page transitions, as well as establishing proper sandboxing mechanisms for JavaScript execution. Users should be advised to avoid visiting untrusted websites and to verify website authenticity through multiple means beyond visual inspection. Organizations should consider implementing browser security policies that restrict the execution of potentially malicious JavaScript code or that require additional user confirmation for certain types of UI modifications. This vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining secure default configurations and proper input validation in web browser implementations, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for JavaScript-based attacks and CWE-1004's emphasis on insecure default security settings.