CVE-2013-6652 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in sandbox/win/src/named_pipe_dispatcher.cc in Google Chrome before 33.0.1750.117 on Windows allows attackers to bypass intended named-pipe policy restrictions in the sandbox via vectors related to (1) lack of checks for .. (dot dot) sequences or (2) lack of use of the \\?\ protection mechanism.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/09/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-6652 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within Google Chrome's sandbox implementation on Windows systems. This security weakness resides in the sandbox/win/src/named_pipe_dispatcher.cc component of Chrome's security architecture, specifically affecting versions prior to 33.0.1750.117. The vulnerability exploits fundamental flaws in how the browser handles named pipe operations within its restricted execution environment, creating a pathway for attackers to circumvent intended security boundaries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from two primary weaknesses in the named pipe dispatcher logic. First, the code fails to properly validate input sequences containing ".." (dot dot) patterns that are commonly used in directory traversal attacks to navigate upward through directory structures. Second, the implementation lacks proper utilization of the Windows "\\?\" prefix protection mechanism that is specifically designed to prevent path manipulation attacks by disabling path normalization and traversal checks. These deficiencies create a scenario where malicious input can bypass the sandbox's intended restrictions on named pipe access.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability enables attackers to execute arbitrary file system operations beyond the sandbox's intended boundaries. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure to potentially allow privilege escalation and system compromise, as attackers can access files and resources that should be restricted to the sandboxed environment. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the kernel level within Chrome's Windows sandbox, making it difficult to detect and remediate. Attackers can leverage this flaw to access sensitive system files, modify critical components, or establish persistent access to the affected system.
The security implications of CVE-2013-6652 align with CWE-22, which categorizes directory traversal vulnerabilities as a fundamental weakness in input validation. This vulnerability also maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, as attackers can use the compromised named pipe access to execute malicious code within the target system. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to Chrome version 33.0.1750.117 or later, which incorporates proper validation of path sequences and utilization of the Windows protection mechanisms. Additionally, network segmentation and monitoring for unusual named pipe activity can help detect exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation in sandboxed environments and highlights the necessity of implementing robust path sanitization mechanisms to prevent unauthorized system access.