CVE-2008-4197 in Web Browser
Summary
by MITRE
Opera before 9.52 on Windows, Linux, FreeBSD, and Solaris, when processing custom shortcut and menu commands, can produce argument strings that contain uninitialized memory, which might allow user-assisted remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or conduct other attacks via vectors related to activation of a shortcut.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/25/2025
This vulnerability exists in Opera web browsers version 9.52 and earlier across multiple operating systems including Windows, Linux, FreeBSD, and Solaris. The flaw manifests when the browser processes custom shortcut and menu commands, creating argument strings that contain uninitialized memory segments. This occurs during the parsing and execution of user-defined commands within the browser's interface. The uninitialized memory typically contains remnants of previous data operations, potentially including sensitive information or executable code fragments that were previously stored in memory locations. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious shortcut or menu commands that trigger the problematic code path, causing the browser to incorporate this uninitialized memory into argument strings that are then processed by the system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper memory management within Opera's command processing subsystem. When custom shortcuts or menu commands are defined by users, the browser creates argument strings to pass to underlying system functions. However, the memory allocation for these argument strings does not properly initialize all memory segments, leaving portions of memory containing previously allocated data. This uninitialized memory can contain arbitrary values including potentially executable code or sensitive data that could be interpreted as commands or parameters by system functions. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the interface level where user input is processed, making it susceptible to user-assisted remote attacks. The attack vector involves an attacker convincing a victim to activate a maliciously crafted shortcut or menu command, which then triggers the exploitation of uninitialized memory.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass broader security implications. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can potentially execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected user, leading to complete system compromise. The uninitialized memory might contain sensitive data such as passwords, session tokens, or other confidential information that could be exposed through memory disclosure. Additionally, the vulnerability could enable privilege escalation attacks or facilitate further exploitation through information disclosure mechanisms. The attack requires user interaction to activate the malicious shortcut or menu command, but once triggered, the consequences can be severe. The vulnerability affects multiple operating systems, increasing its potential attack surface and making it particularly concerning for organizations with diverse computing environments.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching and system hardening measures. The most effective solution is upgrading to Opera version 9.52 or later, where the memory initialization issues have been resolved. Organizations should implement strict access controls and user education programs to prevent accidental activation of malicious shortcuts or menu commands. System administrators should monitor for unauthorized changes to browser configurations and custom shortcuts. Additional protective measures include implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of unknown or untrusted commands, enabling operating system security features such as address space layout randomization, and deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious command execution patterns. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-457: Use of Uninitialized Variable and can be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter execution, as well as T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. Organizations should also consider implementing sandboxing techniques to limit the potential damage from successful exploitation attempts.