CVE-2010-4206 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Array index error in the FEBlend::apply function in WebCore/platform/graphics/filters/FEBlend.cpp in WebKit, as used in Google Chrome before 7.0.517.44, webkitgtk before 1.2.6, and other products, allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service and possibly execute arbitrary code via a crafted SVG document, related to effects in the application of filters.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/28/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-4206 represents a critical array index error within the FEBlend::apply function of WebKit's WebCore component, specifically in the file WebCore/platform/graphics/filters/FEBlend.cpp. This flaw exists in the graphics filter processing pipeline that handles SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) documents, making it particularly dangerous in web environments where SVG content is commonly rendered. The issue manifests when processing filter effects that utilize blend operations, which are fundamental components in creating visual effects within vector graphics. The vulnerability affects multiple implementations including Google Chrome versions prior to 7.0.517.44 and webkitgtk versions before 1.2.6, indicating a widespread impact across different WebKit-based browsers and applications.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking within the FEBlend::apply function, which processes blend operations in SVG filter effects. When a malicious SVG document contains crafted filter parameters that manipulate array indices beyond their allocated bounds, the application experiences undefined behavior that can lead to memory corruption. This type of flaw falls under CWE-129, which specifically addresses insufficient checking of array indices, and represents a classic example of an out-of-bounds read or write condition. The vulnerability's exploitation requires a remote attacker to craft a malicious SVG document that triggers the problematic code path during filter application, making it particularly insidious as it can be delivered through web pages, email attachments, or any medium capable of rendering SVG content.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-4206 extends beyond simple denial of service to potentially enable remote code execution, making it a severe security concern for affected systems. The array index error can result in memory corruption that may allow attackers to manipulate program execution flow, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected application. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as attackers could leverage the memory corruption to inject and execute malicious code within the browser context. The denial of service aspect occurs when the improper array access causes application crashes or hangs, rendering the browser unusable and disrupting user productivity. The attack vector requires no user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website or opening a crafted document, making it particularly dangerous in phishing campaigns or exploit delivery scenarios.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve immediate patching of affected software versions, as the issue was resolved through proper bounds checking in the FEBlend::apply function. System administrators should prioritize updating Google Chrome to version 7.0.517.44 or later, and webkitgtk to version 1.2.6 or higher. Additional protective measures include implementing strict content filtering policies that restrict SVG content from untrusted sources, disabling SVG support in applications where it is not essential, and employing web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious SVG patterns. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual browser behavior or crashes that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of input validation and bounds checking in graphics processing libraries, as similar issues could exist in other filter processing components. Organizations should conduct security assessments of their WebKit-based applications to identify potential similar vulnerabilities in other filter functions, ensuring comprehensive protection against similar classes of memory corruption flaws.