CVE-2012-5180 in Web Browser
Summary
by MITRE
The Opera Mobile application before 12.1 and Opera Mini application before 7.5 for Android do not properly implement the WebView class, which allows attackers to obtain sensitive information via a crafted application.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/22/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-5180 affects Opera Mobile versions prior to 12.1 and Opera Mini versions prior to 7.5 on Android platforms, representing a significant security flaw in the WebView implementation that exposes users to potential information disclosure risks. This issue stems from improper handling of the WebView class within these mobile browsers, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the application's architecture and extract sensitive data from the device. The vulnerability is particularly concerning given the widespread use of these browsers on Android devices and the potential for attackers to leverage this flaw in various attack scenarios.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the inadequate security measures implemented within the WebView component of these Opera applications, which serves as the core rendering engine for web content within the mobile browser. When the WebView class fails to properly validate or sanitize input from crafted applications, it creates an environment where attackers can manipulate the browser's behavior to access information that should normally be restricted. This flaw aligns with CWE-20, which describes improper input validation, and represents a classic example of how WebView implementations can become attack vectors when proper security boundaries are not maintained. The vulnerability essentially allows for privilege escalation through the manipulation of the browser's internal rendering mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can enable attackers to access sensitive user data, session information, and potentially device-specific details that could be used for further exploitation. Mobile users running affected versions of Opera Mobile or Opera Mini face risks including unauthorized access to personal information, browsing history, cookies, and other cached data that the browser stores. The attack surface is particularly broad given that WebView components are often used to handle various types of content including web pages, local files, and embedded applications, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where users may encounter malicious content or applications.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily focus on immediate software updates to the affected Opera applications, ensuring users upgrade to versions 12.1 or later for Opera Mobile and 7.5 or later for Opera Mini. Security administrators should also implement network-level controls to monitor and filter potentially malicious content that could exploit this vulnerability, while users should be educated about the importance of keeping their mobile browsers updated. Organizations deploying these browsers in enterprise environments should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments and consider implementing additional security measures such as mobile device management solutions that can enforce security policies and ensure timely patch deployment. The remediation process should also include monitoring for any signs of exploitation attempts and implementing proper incident response procedures to address potential breaches. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date mobile browser implementations and highlights how WebView security flaws can create persistent risks for users and organizations alike.