CVE-2016-1622 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
The Extensions subsystem in Google Chrome before 48.0.2564.109 does not prevent use of the Object.defineProperty method to override intended extension behavior, which allows remote attackers to bypass the Same Origin Policy via crafted JavaScript code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/08/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-1622 resides within the Extensions subsystem of Google Chrome browser versions prior to 48.0.2564.109, representing a critical security flaw that undermines the browser's fundamental security model. This issue specifically targets the Object.defineProperty method within Chrome's extension architecture, enabling malicious actors to manipulate extension behavior in ways that were not intended by the browser's security design. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation mechanisms that should have prevented unauthorized modifications to extension properties and behaviors.
The technical implementation of this flaw allows attackers to exploit the Object.defineProperty JavaScript method to override extension-specific configurations and access controls that are typically protected by Chrome's security boundaries. When an extension attempts to define properties using this method, the browser fails to properly validate whether the operation would compromise the extension's intended functionality or security constraints. This oversight creates a pathway for remote code execution through crafted JavaScript payloads that can manipulate extension behavior to bypass critical security controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it fundamentally undermines the Same Origin Policy that serves as a cornerstone of web security. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute malicious code that operates with the privileges and permissions of the targeted extension, potentially accessing sensitive user data, modifying browser behavior, or establishing persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects not just individual user sessions but can compromise entire extension ecosystems, as malicious actors can craft payloads that work across multiple extensions that share similar security patterns.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control mechanisms, and demonstrates how JavaScript-based security bypasses can lead to significant privilege escalation in browser environments. The attack vector operates through remote code execution via web pages that load malicious JavaScript, making it particularly dangerous as users can be compromised simply by visiting malicious websites. The issue also relates to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for JavaScript execution and T1548.002 for abuse of privileges, as it enables attackers to gain elevated access within the browser's extension environment.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-1622 require immediate browser updates to versions 48.0.2564.109 and later, where Google implemented proper validation of Object.defineProperty operations within extension contexts. Organizations should also consider implementing browser hardening measures, including extension permission reviews, regular security audits of installed extensions, and monitoring for unauthorized extension modifications. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of installing extensions from untrusted sources and the importance of keeping browser software updated. The vulnerability highlights the critical need for continuous security validation in complex browser architectures where multiple security layers must work in concert to prevent such cross-domain privilege escalation attacks.