CVE-2014-3201 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
core/rendering/compositing/RenderLayerCompositor.cpp in Blink, as used in Google Chrome before 38.0.2125.102 on Android, does not properly handle a certain IFRAME overflow condition, which allows remote attackers to spoof content via a crafted web site that interferes with the scrollbar.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/21/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-3201 resides within the Blink rendering engine's compositor component, specifically in the RenderLayerCompositor.cpp file. This flaw affects Google Chrome versions prior to 38.0.2125.102 on Android platforms, representing a critical security issue that exploits improper handling of IFRAME overflow conditions. The vulnerability's root cause lies in the browser's failure to correctly manage the visual composition of nested iframe elements when overflow occurs, creating a scenario where malicious web content can manipulate the rendering pipeline.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of IFRAME elements that exceed their container boundaries, particularly when these elements contain scrollable content. When Chrome processes such overflow conditions, the compositor fails to properly isolate or manage the visual layers, allowing attacker-controlled content to interfere with the scrollbar rendering mechanism. This mismanagement creates a condition where the browser's compositor incorrectly calculates layer boundaries and rendering priorities, enabling an attacker to craft web pages that can effectively spoof legitimate content by exploiting these rendering inconsistencies.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple content spoofing, as it represents a potential vector for more sophisticated attacks within the context of web-based exploitation. Attackers can leverage this flaw to create deceptive user interfaces that appear legitimate while actually concealing malicious content or functionality. The vulnerability specifically targets the Android version of Chrome, making mobile users particularly susceptible to this type of attack. This represents a significant concern given the widespread adoption of mobile browsers and the potential for attackers to craft convincing phishing pages or malicious content that bypasses normal security mechanisms.
The security implications of this vulnerability align with CWE-124, which addresses "Copied Source Code" and improper memory handling, as well as with ATT&CK technique T1059.001, which covers command and scripting interpreter. The vulnerability's exploitation requires no special privileges and can be executed through standard web browsing activities, making it particularly dangerous in a mobile environment where users may be less aware of security risks. The flaw demonstrates a classic case of improper input validation and rendering layer management that allows attackers to manipulate the visual presentation of web content. Organizations and users should prioritize immediate patching of affected Chrome versions and implement additional security measures such as content filtering and user awareness training to mitigate potential exploitation risks.
The remediation for this vulnerability involves updating to Google Chrome version 38.0.2125.102 or later, which includes fixes to the RenderLayerCompositor component's handling of IFRAME overflow conditions. Security researchers recommend that enterprises implement automated patch management systems to ensure timely deployment of security updates. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper layer management in browser compositors and serves as a reminder of the complex interactions between different rendering components that can create unexpected security exposure points.