CVE-2013-2900 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
The FilePath::ReferencesParent function in files/file_path.cc in Google Chrome before 29.0.1547.57 on Windows does not properly handle pathname components composed entirely of . (dot) and whitespace characters, which allows remote attackers to conduct directory traversal attacks via a crafted directory name.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/21/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-2900 resides within the FilePath::ReferencesParent function in Google Chrome's file path handling code on Windows systems. This flaw represents a classic directory traversal vulnerability that exploits improper validation of pathname components, specifically those composed entirely of dot and whitespace characters. The vulnerability affects Chrome versions prior to 29.0.1547.57 and demonstrates how seemingly innocuous path manipulation can lead to significant security implications. The issue stems from inadequate input sanitization within the browser's file system interaction layer, where the application fails to properly normalize or validate path components that consist solely of periods and whitespace characters.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a remote attacker crafts malicious directory names containing only dots and whitespace characters that can bypass normal path validation mechanisms. When Chrome processes such paths through the FilePath::ReferencesParent function, the improper handling of these specific pathname components allows attackers to manipulate the file system traversal logic. This manipulation enables attackers to navigate outside of intended directories and potentially access restricted files or directories that should remain protected. The vulnerability specifically targets Windows operating systems where the path normalization behavior differs from other platforms, creating a unique attack surface that leverages platform-specific path handling quirks.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to user privacy and system integrity as it allows remote attackers to perform directory traversal attacks without requiring local system access. The impact extends beyond simple file access, potentially enabling attackers to read sensitive system files, manipulate browser data, or even execute arbitrary code in certain scenarios. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and requires no special privileges to exploit, making it particularly dangerous in web-based attack scenarios. Security researchers have classified this issue as a directory traversal vulnerability, which aligns with common attack patterns documented in the attack tree framework and commonly referenced in security assessments.
The mitigation strategy for CVE-2013-2900 involves updating Google Chrome to version 29.0.1547.57 or later, which includes proper path normalization and validation logic. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management processes to ensure all affected systems receive timely updates. Additionally, network administrators should consider implementing web application firewalls and content filtering solutions to detect and block suspicious path manipulation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and path normalization in security-critical applications, aligning with security best practices outlined in standards such as the CWE catalog where this type of vulnerability is categorized under improper input validation. This particular flaw also relates to ATT&CK technique T1059 which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, as the directory traversal could potentially enable further exploitation through file system access.
Organizations should conduct regular security assessments to identify similar path handling vulnerabilities in their applications and ensure proper implementation of input sanitization techniques. The vulnerability highlights the need for robust security testing, including fuzzing and boundary condition testing of path manipulation functions. System administrators should also monitor for suspicious file access patterns and implement proper access controls to limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. The fix implemented in Chrome 29.0.1547.57 demonstrates the importance of proper path normalization and the careful handling of edge cases in file system operations, particularly when dealing with platform-specific behaviors that may introduce unexpected security implications.