CVE-2013-0895 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Google Chrome before 25.0.1364.97 on Linux, and before 25.0.1364.99 on Mac OS X, does not properly handle pathnames during copy operations, which might make it easier for remote attackers to execute arbitrary programs via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/05/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-0895 affects Google Chrome versions prior to 25.0.1364.97 on Linux systems and before 25.0.1364.99 on Mac OS X platforms. This issue stems from improper handling of pathnames during copy operations within the browser's file system management mechanisms. The flaw represents a critical security weakness that could potentially be exploited by remote attackers to execute arbitrary programs on affected systems. The vulnerability specifically impacts the way Chrome processes file paths when performing copy operations, creating opportunities for malicious actors to manipulate file system behaviors through crafted inputs or network-based attacks. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of path traversal and file system manipulation flaws that have historically been exploited to gain unauthorized system access or execute malicious code.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves Chrome's handling of file pathnames during copy operations, where the browser fails to properly validate or sanitize input paths before processing them. This improper path handling allows attackers to craft malicious file operations that could bypass normal security restrictions. When Chrome copies files, it should validate that the destination path is legitimate and does not point to sensitive system locations. However, the flaw enables attackers to manipulate these operations to redirect file copying to arbitrary locations, potentially allowing execution of code in privileged contexts. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it operates at the file system level, where successful exploitation could lead to privilege escalation or arbitrary code execution. This weakness aligns with common software security flaws documented in the CWE database under categories related to improper input validation and file system access controls, particularly CWE-22 for path traversal and CWE-78 for command injection.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-0895 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it creates multiple attack vectors that could be leveraged by threat actors to compromise affected systems. Remote attackers could exploit this vulnerability through web-based attacks, potentially delivering malicious content that triggers the vulnerable file copy operations. The vulnerability's cross-platform nature means that both Linux and Mac OS X users were at risk, with different version thresholds for exploitation. Attackers could potentially use this flaw to install malware, modify system files, or create persistent backdoors on compromised systems. The vulnerability's exploitation requires network access and typically involves crafting malicious web content that, when loaded in Chrome, triggers the problematic copy operation. This makes it particularly dangerous in phishing campaigns or drive-by download scenarios where users might unknowingly trigger the exploit through normal browsing activities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-0895 primarily involve updating Chrome to patched versions that properly handle pathname validation during copy operations. System administrators should prioritize immediate deployment of Chrome updates to address this vulnerability, as the window for exploitation remains open until the software is patched. Additional defensive measures include implementing network-based restrictions such as web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious file operation patterns. Browser hardening techniques should also be applied, including disabling unnecessary file system access for web content and implementing strict content security policies. Organizations should also consider deploying endpoint protection solutions that monitor for suspicious file system activities that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in preventing path manipulation attacks, aligning with ATT&CK techniques related to privilege escalation and persistence through file system manipulation. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to ensure that all Chrome installations remain up-to-date with the latest security patches, as this type of vulnerability can serve as a gateway for more sophisticated attacks within compromised environments.