CVE-2010-2658 in Web Browser
Summary
by MITRE
Opera before 10.60 does not properly restrict certain interaction between plug-ins, file inputs, and the clipboard, which allows user-assisted remote attackers to trigger the uploading of arbitrary files via a crafted web site.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/20/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-2658 represents a critical security flaw in Opera web browsers prior to version 10.60, specifically related to improper handling of interactions between browser plug-ins, file input elements, and clipboard operations. This issue stems from inadequate restrictions on how these components can communicate and interact within the browser environment, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the browser's security model. The flaw exists in the browser's privilege separation mechanisms and input validation controls that should normally prevent unauthorized file access operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows remote attackers to craft malicious web pages that can manipulate the browser's clipboard functionality in conjunction with plug-in interactions and file input controls. When a user visits such a crafted website, the malicious code can potentially access file input elements and leverage clipboard interactions to bypass normal file upload restrictions. This creates a scenario where arbitrary files can be uploaded from the victim's system without proper authorization or user consent, effectively circumventing the browser's security boundaries between different execution contexts. The vulnerability specifically targets the browser's handling of cross-context operations where plug-in code can interact with file system elements through clipboard mechanisms.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to users who may inadvertently visit compromised websites or be tricked into clicking malicious links. The user-assisted nature of the attack means that successful exploitation requires user interaction, typically through visiting a malicious website, but once triggered, it can result in unauthorized file uploads from the victim's system. This could potentially lead to data exfiltration, system compromise through malicious file uploads, or other malicious activities that leverage the ability to bypass normal file access controls. The impact extends beyond simple file access, as it represents a breakdown in the browser's security model that could enable more sophisticated attacks.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, which describes improper input validation, and demonstrates weaknesses in privilege separation and access control mechanisms within the browser's architecture. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving privilege escalation and persistence through browser-based attacks, specifically targeting the browser's security boundaries. The attack requires a user to visit a malicious website, which aligns with initial access techniques in the ATT&CK matrix. Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including updating to Opera version 10.60 or later, which includes proper restrictions on plug-in interactions and clipboard operations. Additionally, browser security policies should be reviewed to ensure proper sandboxing of plug-in execution contexts and implementation of stricter clipboard access controls. Network-based defenses such as web application firewalls and content filtering solutions can provide additional protection layers, though the primary remediation remains browser version updates and user education about visiting untrusted websites.