CVE-2015-1209 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Use-after-free vulnerability in the VisibleSelection::nonBoundaryShadowTreeRootNode function in core/editing/VisibleSelection.cpp in the DOM implementation in Blink, as used in Google Chrome before 40.0.2214.111 on Windows, OS X, and Linux and before 40.0.2214.109 on Android, allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service or possibly have unspecified other impact via crafted JavaScript code that triggers improper handling of a shadow-root anchor.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/08/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-1209 represents a critical use-after-free flaw within the Blink rendering engine's DOM implementation that affects Google Chrome versions prior to 40.0.2214.111 on Windows, OS X, and Linux platforms, and before 40.0.2214.109 on Android devices. This vulnerability resides in the VisibleSelection::nonBoundaryShadowTreeRootNode function located in core/editing/VisibleSelection.cpp, which is responsible for managing selection operations within the document object model. The flaw occurs when the browser processes JavaScript code that creates improper handling of shadow-root anchors, leading to memory management issues that can be exploited by remote attackers to execute malicious code or cause system instability.
The technical execution of this vulnerability involves a specific memory management error where the application attempts to access memory that has already been freed, creating a use-after-free condition that can be manipulated by attackers. This particular flaw demonstrates a failure in proper object lifecycle management within the Blink engine's editing components, specifically when dealing with shadow DOM elements and selection boundaries. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-416 as a Use After Free condition, which represents a common class of memory safety issues that can lead to arbitrary code execution or denial of service when exploited properly. The implementation flaw occurs during the processing of visible selection operations when the system fails to properly validate or manage the lifecycle of shadow tree root nodes, allowing attackers to craft JavaScript payloads that trigger this memory corruption scenario.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-1209 extends beyond simple denial of service to potentially enable more severe consequences including arbitrary code execution and system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability through crafted JavaScript code delivered via web pages, making it particularly dangerous in web-based attack scenarios. The vulnerability affects all supported platforms where Chrome is installed, creating a widespread attack surface that could be exploited against users across different operating systems and mobile platforms. When successfully exploited, the use-after-free condition could allow attackers to execute malicious code with the privileges of the browser process, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data theft, or persistent backdoor installation. The vulnerability's impact is further amplified by the fact that it requires no user interaction beyond visiting a malicious webpage, making it a particularly dangerous exploit in phishing campaigns or drive-by download scenarios.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-1209 primarily focus on immediate patching and updating of affected Chrome installations to versions 40.0.2214.111 or later on desktop platforms and 40.0.2214.109 or later on Android platforms. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all Chrome installations are updated promptly, as this vulnerability represents a critical security risk. Browser vendors and security teams should also consider implementing additional security measures such as sandboxing, memory protection mechanisms, and runtime monitoring to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of memory safety in browser engines and demonstrates the need for rigorous code review processes, particularly for components handling DOM manipulation and selection operations. Security professionals should monitor for related exploits and implement network-based protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to detect potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of keeping browser software updated remains crucial in defending against this and similar vulnerabilities.