CVE-2010-1939 in Safari
Summary
by MITRE
Use-after-free vulnerability in Apple Safari 4.0.5 on Windows allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by using window.open to create a popup window for a crafted HTML document, and then calling the parent window s close method, which triggers improper handling of a deleted window object.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/25/2025
The CVE-2010-1939 vulnerability represents a critical use-after-free flaw in Apple Safari 4.0.5 for Windows that demonstrates the dangerous consequences of improper memory management in web browsers. This vulnerability operates through a sophisticated attack vector that exploits the browser's handling of popup windows and their lifecycle management. The flaw specifically manifests when a malicious HTML document triggers window.open to create a popup window, followed by a call to the parent window's close method, which ultimately leads to the execution of arbitrary code on the victim's system. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-416 category of use-after-free conditions, where memory is accessed after it has been freed, creating a potential exploitation window for attackers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability relies on the browser's improper handling of window object references during the popup creation and destruction process. When Safari processes the window.open call followed by the close method on the parent window, it fails to properly validate or invalidate references to the deleted window object. This memory management failure creates a scenario where an attacker-controlled HTML document can manipulate the browser's internal state to execute arbitrary code. The attack requires a crafted HTML document that specifically triggers this sequence of operations, making it a sophisticated social engineering target that leverages the browser's legitimate window management functions for malicious purposes. The vulnerability demonstrates the complexity of modern browser security and the challenges inherent in managing complex object lifecycles across different execution contexts.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-1939 is significant as it provides remote attackers with a reliable method for arbitrary code execution on Windows systems running Safari 4.0.5. This capability allows attackers to bypass traditional security measures and potentially establish persistent access to compromised systems. The vulnerability affects a specific browser version on a particular operating system, but its exploitation demonstrates the broader risks associated with browser-based attacks and the critical importance of keeping software updated. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to deliver malware, steal sensitive information, or establish backdoors on targeted systems. The exploit requires minimal user interaction beyond visiting a malicious webpage, making it particularly dangerous in phishing campaigns or drive-by download scenarios. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of browser sandboxing and memory safety mechanisms in preventing such attacks from succeeding.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-1939 primarily focus on immediate software updates and browser security hardening measures. Users should immediately upgrade to Safari 5.0 or later versions where this vulnerability has been addressed through improved memory management and window object handling. System administrators should implement browser security policies that restrict popup window creation and enforce regular security updates. The vulnerability also underscores the need for comprehensive security testing of browser components, particularly those involving object lifecycle management and memory handling. Organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls and content filtering solutions to prevent access to malicious sites that could exploit this vulnerability. Additionally, user education about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of keeping software updated remains crucial in defending against such attacks. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of following the principle of least privilege and maintaining current security patches across all browser installations. The incident also demonstrates how vulnerabilities in widely used software components can create widespread security risks that require coordinated response and remediation efforts across the security community.