CVE-2011-2358 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Google Chrome before 13.0.782.107 does not ensure that extension installations are confirmed by a browser dialog, which makes it easier for remote attackers to modify the product s functionality via a Trojan horse extension.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/19/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-2358 represents a critical security flaw in Google Chrome browser versions prior to 13.0.782.107, where the browser fails to properly enforce user confirmation mechanisms during extension installation processes. This weakness stems from the browser's insufficient validation of extension installation requests, allowing malicious actors to potentially install extensions without explicit user consent through deceptive means. The flaw specifically targets the extension management system that governs how third-party add-ons are integrated into the browser environment, creating a pathway for unauthorized modifications to the browser's core functionality.
This vulnerability operates through a fundamental breakdown in the browser's user interface confirmation mechanisms, where the absence of mandatory dialog prompts during extension installation enables automated or stealthy deployment of malicious extensions. Attackers can exploit this by crafting Trojan horse extensions that appear legitimate to users but contain malicious code designed to alter browser behavior, redirect traffic, or harvest user data. The technical implementation flaw lies in the browser's failure to enforce proper user interaction requirements before installing extensions, effectively bypassing the security model that should require explicit user acknowledgment of new functionality being added to the browser.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-2358 extends beyond simple functionality modification, as it enables sophisticated attack vectors including man-in-the-middle operations, credential harvesting, and persistent browser-based surveillance. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat surface where malicious extensions can remain undetected while altering browser behavior, potentially compromising user privacy and security. This flaw particularly affects users who may unknowingly install extensions from untrusted sources, as the browser's lack of confirmation prompts removes the critical user verification step that should prevent unauthorized modifications to the browser's core capabilities. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to complete browser compromise and potential data exfiltration.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability involve immediate browser updates to versions 13.0.782.107 or later, which implement proper user confirmation dialogs for extension installations. Organizations should also implement strict extension management policies, including the use of whitelisting mechanisms and regular security audits of installed extensions. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-602, which addresses client-side input validation issues, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1176 for the installation of malicious browser extensions. Additionally, security professionals should consider implementing browser security extensions and monitoring for unauthorized extension installations to detect potential exploitation attempts. The remediation process requires not only updating the browser but also educating users about the importance of extension verification and implementing proper access controls for browser management functions.