CVE-2016-5214 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Google Chrome prior to 55.0.2883.75 for Windows mishandled downloaded files, which allowed a remote attacker to prevent the downloaded file from receiving the Mark of the Web via a crafted HTML page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/14/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-5214 represents a critical security flaw in Google Chrome versions prior to 55.0.2883.75 on Windows operating systems. This issue stems from the browser's improper handling of downloaded files through crafted HTML pages, creating a significant vector for remote code execution and privilege escalation attacks. The flaw specifically affects how Chrome processes file downloads and applies security markings to prevent malicious content from executing with elevated privileges.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in Chrome's failure to properly implement the Mark of the Web (MOTW) mechanism when processing downloaded files. The MOTW is a security feature that Windows uses to mark files downloaded from the internet with a security zone identifier, typically preventing them from executing with full system privileges. When Chrome fails to properly apply this marking, it allows attackers to bypass Windows security controls that would normally prevent potentially malicious files from running with elevated permissions. This misimplementation creates a pathway for attackers to execute arbitrary code on victim systems with the privileges of the logged-in user.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-5214 extends beyond simple file execution, as it enables attackers to circumvent multiple layers of Windows security controls. Attackers can craft HTML pages that, when visited by victims, trigger file downloads that bypass the normal security restrictions imposed by Internet Explorer and other browsers. This vulnerability specifically targets the Windows Internet Explorer security model where files downloaded from the internet are marked with the internet zone security level, preventing them from executing with local system privileges. The flaw essentially allows attackers to create a backdoor that can execute code with user-level privileges while appearing to be legitimate downloaded content.
From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability aligns with several tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to initial access and privilege escalation. The vulnerability enables adversaries to leverage social engineering techniques through crafted web pages that appear legitimate to users while silently bypassing security controls. The weakness can be exploited as part of a broader attack chain where attackers first gain initial access through phishing emails or malicious websites, then use this vulnerability to download and execute malicious payloads that would otherwise be blocked by Windows security mechanisms.
This vulnerability directly relates to CWE-284, which addresses improper access control, and CWE-352, which covers cross-site request forgery. The improper handling of file download security markings represents a clear access control failure where the system fails to properly enforce security boundaries. Additionally, the vulnerability can be categorized under CWE-122, which deals with buffer overflow conditions, though the specific manifestation here involves improper security marking rather than traditional buffer overflows. The security implications extend to compliance requirements under standards such as NIST SP 800-53, which mandates proper access control and privilege management in system security configurations.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including updating Chrome to version 55.0.2883.75 or later, which resolves the vulnerability through proper implementation of the Mark of the Web mechanism. Network administrators should also consider implementing web filtering solutions and browser security policies that restrict file downloads from untrusted sources. The mitigation strategy should include regular patch management processes to ensure all systems remain current with security updates, particularly for browser software which serves as a primary attack vector for many cyber threats. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of visiting untrusted websites and downloading files should be emphasized as part of a comprehensive security approach.