CVE-2012-4907 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Google Chrome before 18.0.1025308 on Android does not properly restrict access from JavaScript code to Android APIs, which allows remote attackers to have an unspecified impact via a crafted web page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/17/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-4907 represents a critical security flaw in Google Chrome versions prior to 18.0.1025308 on Android platforms. This issue stems from insufficient sandboxing mechanisms that fail to properly isolate JavaScript execution contexts from underlying Android operating system APIs. The flaw creates a dangerous pathway where malicious web content can bypass normal security boundaries and gain unauthorized access to sensitive system functionalities. The vulnerability specifically targets the inter-process communication mechanisms between the browser's JavaScript engine and Android's native API layer, allowing for potential privilege escalation and unauthorized system access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the weak boundaries between the browser's rendering engine and the Android application framework. When Chrome processes web content on Android devices, it fails to adequately enforce security policies that would normally prevent JavaScript code from directly invoking Android system calls. This occurs through improper handling of the WebView component and its associated API access controls. The flaw essentially creates a bridge between the sandboxed web environment and the privileged Android system services, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code with the permissions of the Chrome application. This type of vulnerability is classified under CWE-284 Access Control Issues, specifically involving inadequate access control mechanisms between different privilege levels.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or privacy violations, as it can enable complete system compromise. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw to execute malicious code on affected Android devices without requiring user interaction or physical access. The vulnerability affects all Android users running Chrome versions prior to the patched release, making it particularly dangerous due to its widespread exposure. Attackers can craft malicious web pages that automatically exploit this weakness when loaded in the browser, potentially leading to full device compromise, data exfiltration, and persistent backdoor installation. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter, specifically targeting the execution of code through web-based attack vectors.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of Chrome to version 18.0.1025308 or later, which implements proper access controls and sandboxing mechanisms. Organizations should also consider implementing network-level protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering solutions to block access to known malicious domains. Browser security policies should be enhanced to restrict API access based on origin and privilege levels, while mobile device management solutions should enforce regular security updates. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of keeping their browser software current. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper sandboxing and access control implementation in cross-platform applications, particularly those that bridge web technologies with native system functionality.