CVE-2008-2715 in Web Browser
Summary
by MITRE
Unspecified vulnerability in Opera before 9.5 allows remote attackers to read cross-domain images via HTML CANVAS elements that use the images as patterns.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/11/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2715 represents a significant security flaw in Opera web browsers prior to version 9.5 that fundamentally undermines the browser's cross-origin resource sharing security model. This issue specifically targets the HTML CANVAS element implementation within the Opera browser, exposing a critical gap in the browser's security architecture that allows malicious actors to bypass normal cross-domain restrictions. The vulnerability operates through a sophisticated mechanism that exploits the way canvas elements handle image data when used as patterns, creating a pathway for unauthorized data exfiltration across domain boundaries.
The technical flaw manifests when Opera's HTML CANVAS element processes images loaded from different domains, particularly those that would normally be restricted by the browser's same-origin policy. When an image is used as a pattern within a canvas element, the browser fails to properly enforce cross-origin access controls, allowing attackers to extract pixel data from images hosted on different domains. This creates a potential information disclosure vulnerability where sensitive data could be accessed through carefully crafted HTML documents that utilize canvas elements to probe cross-domain resources. The flaw essentially violates the fundamental security principle that web browsers must prevent unauthorized access to resources across different security domains.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple information disclosure, as it represents a complete breakdown in the browser's security model for handling cross-domain resources. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to perform reconnaissance activities by attempting to access images from various domains, potentially uncovering sensitive information about web applications or user data. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates silently in the background, allowing attackers to harvest image data without user awareness or consent. This capability could be exploited in conjunction with other attack vectors to build comprehensive profiles of users or extract sensitive information from web applications that rely on cross-domain image loading.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-200, which addresses improper exposure of sensitive information, and demonstrates how browser security mechanisms can fail when implementing complex HTML5 features like canvas elements. The attack pattern corresponds to techniques described in the ATT&CK framework under T1056.001 for credential access through browser exploitation. Organizations using affected Opera versions face significant risk as this vulnerability could be exploited in drive-by download scenarios or through malicious websites that craft HTML documents specifically designed to probe cross-domain image access. The exploitation requires minimal user interaction, making it particularly dangerous in phishing campaigns or social engineering attacks where users might inadvertently access malicious content that triggers the vulnerability.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2715 primarily focus on immediate browser updates to versions 9.5 or later where the vulnerability has been patched. System administrators should implement comprehensive browser security policies that disable or restrict canvas element usage in environments where cross-domain access is a concern. Network security controls including web application firewalls and content filtering systems can help detect and block malicious attempts to exploit this vulnerability. Additionally, user education programs should emphasize the importance of keeping browsers updated and avoiding suspicious websites that might attempt to exploit such security flaws. The patch for this vulnerability specifically addressed the canvas element's handling of cross-domain image data, ensuring that proper origin checks are enforced when images are used as patterns, thereby restoring the browser's intended security model.