CVE-2016-8506 in Javascript
Summary
by MITRE
XSS in Yandex Browser Translator in Yandex browser for desktop for versions from 15.12 to 16.2 could be used by remote attacker for evaluation arbitrary javascript code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/19/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-8506 represents a cross-site scripting flaw within the Yandex Browser Translator component of Yandex Browser for desktop versions ranging from 15.12 to 16.2. This security weakness resides in the browser's translation functionality and creates a significant attack surface that allows remote adversaries to execute malicious javascript code within the context of the user's browser session. The flaw specifically affects desktop users who utilize the Yandex Browser's built-in translation feature, making it particularly concerning given the widespread adoption of this browser in certain geographic regions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and output encoding within the Yandex Browser Translator module. When users interact with the translation feature, the browser fails to properly sanitize user-provided content or translation parameters before rendering them in the browser interface. This inadequate sanitization process creates an environment where attacker-controlled data can be injected into the browser's rendering pipeline, ultimately allowing malicious javascript code execution. The vulnerability manifests when the browser processes translation requests that contain specially crafted payloads designed to exploit the insufficient validation mechanisms.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a substantial risk to end users as it enables remote code execution capabilities without requiring any local privileges or additional attack vectors. An attacker could craft malicious translation requests or manipulate translation parameters to inject javascript code that would execute within the user's browser context. This could lead to various malicious activities including session hijacking, data exfiltration, credential theft, or the installation of additional malware. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it leverages the browser's legitimate translation functionality, making it more likely to bypass security expectations and user suspicion.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in web applications and browser environments. This classification indicates that the flaw represents a classic input validation issue where user-controllable data is improperly handled during output rendering. Additionally, the attack pattern corresponds to techniques described in the ATT&CK framework under T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript" where adversaries leverage browser-based execution environments to run malicious scripts. The vulnerability also demonstrates characteristics of T1566.001 which covers "Phishing: Spearphishing Attachment" as attackers could potentially deliver malicious translation content through deceptive means to compromise user systems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation through software updates, as Yandex would need to release patched versions of their browser that properly sanitize translation inputs and implement robust output encoding mechanisms. Users should be advised to disable or avoid using the translation feature until updates are applied, and organizations should consider implementing browser security policies that restrict access to potentially vulnerable components. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems can provide additional defense-in-depth measures, though the most effective solution remains the timely application of vendor-provided security patches that address the root cause of the input validation failure in the translation module.