CVE-2015-1329 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
Use-after-free vulnerability in oxide::qt::URLRequestDelegatedJob in oxide-qt in Ubuntu 15.04 and 14.04 LTS might allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/29/2022
The CVE-2015-1329 vulnerability represents a critical use-after-free flaw within the oxide-qt library component of Ubuntu systems, specifically affecting versions 14.04 LTS and 15.04. This vulnerability resides in the oxide::qt::URLRequestDelegatedJob class, which serves as a core component in handling web requests within the oxide browser engine. The flaw manifests when memory allocated for request handling objects is freed but subsequently accessed by the application, creating a scenario where attackers can manipulate the memory layout to execute arbitrary code remotely.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-416, which categorizes use-after-free conditions as a fundamental memory safety issue. The oxide-qt library operates as a Qt-based web rendering engine that provides browser functionality to applications, making it a critical component in Ubuntu's desktop environment and various web-based applications. When the URLRequestDelegatedJob object is improperly managed during request processing, particularly during asynchronous operations, the freed memory can be reallocated and accessed by malicious code, enabling code execution.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to Ubuntu users running affected versions, as remote attackers can exploit it through crafted web content or malicious websites. The attack vector typically involves delivering malicious web content that triggers the vulnerable code path, causing the application to free memory that is then reused in a manner that allows arbitrary code execution. This represents a severe privilege escalation risk as attackers can potentially execute malicious code with the privileges of the affected application, which often runs with elevated permissions.
The exploitation of this vulnerability can be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1059, specifically focusing on command and scripting interpreter execution, as successful exploitation enables attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the target system. The impact extends beyond simple code execution to potentially allow full system compromise, as the affected applications often have access to system resources and user data. The vulnerability's remote exploitability makes it particularly dangerous in web browsing scenarios where users may unknowingly visit compromised websites.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-1329 primarily involve immediate system updates and patches provided by Ubuntu security teams. Users should upgrade to patched versions of the oxide-qt library and ensure all related browser components are updated. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering can provide additional defense in depth. Additionally, users should avoid visiting untrusted websites and maintain regular system updates to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities. The vulnerability highlights the importance of memory safety practices in browser engine development and underscores the need for comprehensive security testing of core components in desktop environments.