CVE-2012-4903 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Google Chrome before 18.0.1025308 on Android does not properly restrict access to file: URLs, which allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information via unspecified vectors, as demonstrated by obtaining credential data, a different vulnerability than CVE-2012-4906.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/20/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-4903 represents a critical access control flaw in Google Chrome versions prior to 18.0.1025308 on Android platforms. This issue stems from insufficient restrictions on file: URL access within the browser's security model, creating a pathway for remote attackers to exploit the system's trust mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically affects the Android version of Chrome, which operates under different security constraints compared to desktop browsers due to the mobile environment's unique architecture and permission model.
The technical flaw manifests in the browser's improper handling of file: URLs, which are designed to access local files on the device. In vulnerable versions, the security boundaries that should prevent unauthorized access to local resources were inadequately enforced. Attackers could leverage this weakness through unspecified vectors to extract sensitive information from the device's local storage, potentially including authentication credentials, personal data, or other confidential information stored locally. This represents a significant bypass of the browser's security sandboxing mechanisms that normally isolate web content from local system resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as demonstrated by the exploitation techniques that could access credential data. Mobile browsers face unique challenges in maintaining security boundaries due to the integration requirements between web content and native device functionality. The Android platform's permission system and Chrome's implementation of cross-origin restrictions created a gap that malicious actors could exploit to gain unauthorized access to local files. This vulnerability particularly concerns users of mobile devices where local storage often contains sensitive personal information and authentication tokens that could be leveraged for further attacks.
Security researchers have categorized this vulnerability under CWE-284, which addresses improper access control mechanisms, specifically focusing on inadequate restrictions on file access. The ATT&CK framework would classify this under T1059 for command and control communications and potentially T1566 for credential access through exploitation of software vulnerabilities. The vulnerability's classification reflects the fundamental nature of the flaw in the browser's security model rather than a specific implementation error. Organizations should prioritize updating affected Chrome versions immediately, as the vulnerability could enable attackers to establish persistent access to mobile devices and potentially escalate privileges to access additional system resources.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate deployment of Chrome updates to version 18.0.1025308 or later, which contain the necessary security patches. Network administrators should monitor for exploitation attempts through security information and event management systems, particularly focusing on unusual file access patterns or attempts to access local resources from remote domains. Mobile device management solutions should enforce security policies that restrict browser functionality and monitor for suspicious network activity. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining current browser versions and implementing comprehensive mobile security policies that address the unique risks associated with mobile platform security models.