CVE-2011-0685 in Web Browser
Summary
by MITRE
The Delete Private Data feature in Opera before 11.01 does not properly implement the "Clear all email account passwords" option, which might allow physically proximate attackers to access an e-mail account via an unattended workstation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/13/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-0685 resides within Opera web browser versions prior to 11.01, specifically affecting the Delete Private Data feature's implementation of the "Clear all email account passwords" functionality. This flaw represents a significant security weakness that exploits the physical proximity of an attacker to an unattended workstation, creating a vector for unauthorized access to email accounts through the browser's private data management system. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-200, which deals with information exposure, and falls within the broader category of privilege escalation through improper access control mechanisms.
The technical implementation flaw occurs when users select the "Clear all email account passwords" option within Opera's privacy settings. Rather than completely removing all email account credentials and associated authentication data from the browser's private storage, the feature fails to properly purge sensitive information from memory and persistent storage locations. This incomplete clearing process leaves residual authentication tokens, session data, or cached credentials that can be accessed by an attacker who gains physical access to the device. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation and insufficient data sanitization practices in the browser's security management subsystem, which directly violates the principle of least privilege and proper data handling protocols.
Operationally, this vulnerability creates a serious risk for users who leave their workstations unattended without proper screen locking mechanisms. An attacker with physical proximity can exploit this weakness by simply accessing the browser's private data management interface and potentially recovering email account credentials that were supposed to be deleted. The attack vector is particularly concerning in shared office environments, public computing facilities, or any scenario where unauthorized physical access to devices is possible. The impact extends beyond simple credential theft as it can lead to full account compromise, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within organizational networks through email-based attack vectors.
The security implications of this vulnerability align with ATT&CK technique T1531, which covers "Account Access Removal", and T1078, which addresses "Valid Accounts". The incomplete deletion process creates a false sense of security for users who believe their email credentials have been properly removed from the system. Mitigation strategies should include immediate browser updates to version 11.01 or later, where the vulnerability has been patched through proper implementation of the private data clearing functionality. Organizations should also implement additional security controls such as mandatory screen locking after periods of inactivity, enhanced physical security measures for workstations, and regular security awareness training to prevent unauthorized access to unattended devices. Furthermore, system administrators should consider implementing device management policies that enforce automatic screen locking and regular security updates to prevent exploitation of such vulnerabilities.