CVE-2010-2298 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
browser/renderer_host/database_dispatcher_host.cc in Google Chrome before 5.0.375.70 on Linux does not properly handle ViewHostMsg_DatabaseOpenFile messages in chroot-based sandboxing, which allows remote attackers to bypass intended sandbox restrictions via vectors involving fchdir and chdir calls.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/16/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-2298 represents a critical sandbox escape flaw in Google Chrome's Linux implementation that undermines the security model designed to isolate browser components. This vulnerability specifically affects Chrome versions prior to 5.0.375.70 and resides within the browser/renderer_host/database_dispatcher_host.cc file, where the handling of ViewHostMsg_DatabaseOpenFile messages fails to properly enforce sandbox restrictions. The issue occurs within the chroot-based sandboxing mechanism that Chrome employs to limit the potential damage from compromised browser processes.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of file system operations within the sandboxed environment. Attackers can leverage fchdir and chdir system calls to manipulate the current working directory of the sandboxed process, effectively bypassing the intended restrictions that should prevent the process from accessing arbitrary file system locations. This flaw allows malicious actors to escape the sandbox boundaries and potentially gain access to sensitive system resources that should remain isolated from the browser's rendering processes. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic sandbox escape pattern where insufficient validation of system calls within the restricted environment enables privilege escalation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple sandbox bypass, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code within the browser's restricted environment. This could lead to complete system compromise when combined with other exploitation techniques, as the attacker gains access to file system operations that should be restricted to prevent unauthorized access to system resources. The vulnerability specifically targets the Linux implementation of Chrome's sandboxing architecture, making it particularly concerning for Linux-based systems where Chrome is widely deployed. This weakness directly violates the fundamental security principle that sandboxed processes should be unable to escape their designated boundaries and access resources outside their intended scope.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-2298 primarily involve updating to Chrome version 5.0.375.70 or later, which includes patches that properly handle the ViewHostMsg_DatabaseOpenFile messages within the chroot sandboxing environment. System administrators should prioritize patch management to ensure all Chrome installations are updated promptly, as this vulnerability represents a significant risk to system security. The fix implemented by Google addresses the specific handling of fchdir and chdir operations within the database dispatcher host, ensuring that these system calls are properly validated and restricted within the sandboxed environment. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security measures such as network segmentation and monitoring for suspicious file system access patterns, as this vulnerability could potentially be leveraged as part of a broader attack chain. This issue aligns with CWE-248, which describes improper handling of exceptions, and relates to ATT&CK technique T1055 for privilege escalation through sandbox escape mechanisms.