CVE-2013-0829 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Google Chrome before 24.0.1312.52 does not properly maintain database metadata, which allows remote attackers to bypass intended file-access restrictions via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/29/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-0829 represents a significant security flaw in Google Chrome browsers prior to version 24.0.1312.52, specifically concerning the browser's handling of database metadata within its storage mechanisms. This issue stems from improper maintenance of database metadata structures that should normally enforce strict file access controls and isolation between different web origins. The flaw exists within Chrome's implementation of the Web SQL Database API and IndexedDB storage systems, which are fundamental components for client-side data persistence in web applications. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-200, which addresses information exposure through improper access control mechanisms, and more specifically with CWE-284, which deals with improper access control in database systems.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when remote attackers can manipulate or bypass the intended restrictions that normally prevent one web origin from accessing another origin's database files. This occurs due to Chrome's failure to properly maintain database metadata that tracks which origins have access to specific database resources. Attackers can leverage this weakness to execute unauthorized database operations that should be restricted by the browser's security model. The unspecified vectors mentioned in the description suggest that the flaw could be exploited through various attack surfaces including malicious websites, cross-site scripting scenarios, or through manipulation of database creation and access patterns. The vulnerability essentially undermines the browser's security model by allowing unauthorized access to database content that should be isolated between different domains or origins.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can enable attackers to perform more sophisticated attacks including data exfiltration, cross-site data manipulation, and potentially privilege escalation within the browser's security boundaries. When exploited successfully, attackers can access database content from other websites, potentially obtaining sensitive user information, session data, or application-specific information that should remain isolated. This vulnerability particularly affects users who visit malicious websites or are subjected to cross-site scripting attacks where the attacker can leverage the database access bypass to gather information from other websites the user has visited. The impact is significant because database access is fundamental to modern web applications, and the ability to bypass access controls in this manner represents a serious compromise of the browser's security architecture.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-0829 primarily focus on updating to Chrome version 24.0.1312.52 or later, which contains the necessary patches to properly maintain database metadata and enforce access controls. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all Chrome installations are updated promptly. Additionally, browser security administrators should consider implementing additional monitoring for suspicious database access patterns and network traffic that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's remediation aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, as attackers might use database access to gather information for further exploitation. Security teams should also review their web application security policies to ensure proper implementation of content security policies and other mechanisms that can help prevent exploitation of such vulnerabilities. Regular security assessments of browser-based applications and user education regarding safe browsing practices remain essential components of a comprehensive defense strategy against this type of database access bypass vulnerability.