CVE-2016-1711 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
WebKit/Source/core/loader/FrameLoader.cpp in Blink, as used in Google Chrome before 52.0.2743.82, does not disable frame navigation during a detach operation on a DocumentLoader object, which allows remote attackers to bypass the Same Origin Policy via a crafted web site.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/09/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-1711 represents a critical security flaw within the Blink rendering engine that powers Google Chrome and other web browsers. This issue resides in the FrameLoader.cpp component of WebKit's core loader functionality, specifically within the DocumentLoader object's handling of frame detachment operations. The vulnerability stems from a failure in the browser's security model where frame navigation is not properly disabled during the detachment phase, creating a window of opportunity for malicious actors to exploit the system.
The technical flaw manifests when a web page attempts to manipulate document loading and navigation sequences through JavaScript or other client-side mechanisms. During normal browser operation, when a document loader detaches from a frame, the system should prevent any further navigation operations that could potentially bypass security boundaries. However, in this case, the detachment process fails to properly terminate navigation capabilities, allowing attackers to execute navigation commands that would normally be restricted by the Same Origin Policy. This creates a scenario where remote attackers can craft malicious websites that manipulate frame relationships to access resources that should be restricted to the same origin.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it directly undermines one of the fundamental security principles of web browsers - the Same Origin Policy that prevents unauthorized access between different websites. Attackers can leverage this flaw to perform cross-site scripting attacks, potentially accessing sensitive data from other origins, executing unauthorized operations, or bypassing security controls that should protect against such attacks. The vulnerability affects versions of Google Chrome prior to 52.0.2743.82, making it a substantial risk for users running outdated browser versions.
This vulnerability maps to CWE-284, which describes improper access control in software systems, specifically highlighting inadequate protection mechanisms that allow unauthorized access to resources. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this represents a privilege escalation technique that could enable adversaries to move laterally within a system or access restricted resources through browser-based attacks. The flaw demonstrates how seemingly minor implementation gaps in core browser components can create significant security risks that affect millions of users.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-1711 primarily focus on immediate browser updates to versions that include the patched FrameLoader implementation. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all browser installations are updated promptly. Additionally, security teams should monitor for any exploitation attempts through network traffic analysis and web application firewalls that can detect suspicious frame navigation patterns. The fix implemented by Google involved properly disabling navigation operations during document loader detachment, ensuring that frame navigation cannot be manipulated after the detachment process begins. This aligns with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-128 for maintaining secure browser configurations and protecting against known vulnerabilities.