CVE-2014-1715 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in Google Chrome before 33.0.1750.152 on OS X and Linux and before 33.0.1750.154 on Windows has unspecified impact and attack vectors.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/08/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-1715 represents a directory traversal flaw affecting Google Chrome versions prior to specific patch releases across multiple operating systems. This security weakness resides in the browser's handling of file paths and could potentially allow attackers to access restricted directories on the affected systems. The vulnerability specifically impacts Chrome versions before 33.0.1750.152 on macOS and Linux platforms, and before 33.0.1750.154 on Windows operating systems, creating a significant attack surface for malicious actors targeting these outdated browser installations.
The technical nature of this directory traversal vulnerability stems from improper input validation and path resolution mechanisms within Chrome's file handling components. Attackers could exploit this flaw by crafting malicious URLs or file references that manipulate the browser's path resolution logic to access files outside the intended directory structure. This type of vulnerability typically occurs when applications fail to properly sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file system operations, allowing attackers to traverse directory hierarchies using sequences like "../" or similar path manipulation techniques. The unspecified impact and attack vectors suggest that the vulnerability could potentially enable various malicious activities including arbitrary file reading, system information disclosure, or even privilege escalation depending on the target system configuration.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-1715 extends beyond simple data exposure, as directory traversal vulnerabilities can serve as stepping stones for more sophisticated attacks within compromised environments. When exploited successfully, this vulnerability could allow attackers to read sensitive system files, configuration data, or user information that should remain protected. The cross-platform nature of the vulnerability means that organizations running affected Chrome versions across different operating systems face consistent risk exposure, potentially enabling attackers to leverage the same exploit across multiple targets. Security professionals should consider this vulnerability as part of broader attack surface management strategies, particularly in environments where browser-based attacks are common.
Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation through Chrome version updates to address this directory traversal vulnerability. The patch releases mentioned in the CVE description contain the necessary fixes to prevent path traversal attacks by implementing proper input validation and path sanitization mechanisms. System administrators should also consider implementing additional security controls such as web application firewalls and network segmentation to reduce the potential impact of browser-based attacks. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, and could potentially map to ATT&CK technique T1059 for command and scripting interpreter usage in exploitation scenarios. Regular security assessments and browser update management policies are essential to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the future.