CVE-2011-3898 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Google Chrome before 15.0.874.120, when Java Runtime Environment (JRE) 7 is used, does not request user confirmation before applet execution begins, which allows remote attackers to have an unspecified impact via a crafted applet.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/26/2021
The vulnerability described in CVE-2011-3898 represents a significant security flaw in Google Chrome's handling of Java applets when the Java Runtime Environment version 7 is present on the system. This issue stems from Chrome's failure to implement proper user consent mechanisms before executing potentially malicious Java applets, creating an attack vector that could be exploited by remote threat actors. The vulnerability specifically affects Chrome versions prior to 15.0.874.120, making it a critical concern for users running outdated browser versions.
The technical flaw manifests in Chrome's interaction with the Java plugin architecture where the browser does not properly validate or request explicit user approval before initiating Java applet execution. This behavior violates fundamental security principles that require explicit user consent for potentially dangerous operations, particularly when dealing with sandboxed applications that can access system resources. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it leverages the trust relationship between the browser and the Java runtime environment, allowing attackers to bypass the usual security boundaries that should protect users from malicious code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple exploitation as it enables attackers to execute arbitrary code within the user's browser context without proper authorization. This could result in various malicious activities including but not limited to data exfiltration, system compromise, or installation of additional malware. The unspecified impact mentioned in the CVE description suggests that attackers could potentially leverage this vulnerability for multiple attack vectors depending on the user's system configuration and the specific nature of the crafted applet. This lack of specificity in the impact description is typical of vulnerabilities that allow for privilege escalation or remote code execution scenarios.
From a cybersecurity framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-807, which addresses "Reliance on Untrusted Inputs in a Security Decision," and represents a clear violation of the principle of least privilege in browser security models. The ATT&CK framework would categorize this under initial access and execution techniques where attackers leverage browser vulnerabilities to execute malicious code. The vulnerability also demonstrates poor input validation and security decision-making processes within Chrome's Java plugin integration, highlighting the importance of proper user consent mechanisms in security-critical applications.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve updating to Chrome version 15.0.874.120 or later, which includes proper user confirmation mechanisms for Java applet execution. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all systems are updated promptly. Additionally, users should disable Java plugin execution in browsers unless absolutely necessary, as Java applets have been deprecated in favor of more secure web technologies. Security administrators should consider implementing network-level controls to restrict access to potentially malicious Java applets and monitor for suspicious browser behavior patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software and the inherent risks associated with legacy technologies that may not receive adequate security updates.