CVE-2017-5094 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Type confusion in extensions JavaScript bindings in Google Chrome prior to 60.0.3112.78 for Mac, Windows, Linux, and Android allowed a remote attacker to potentially maliciously modify objects via a crafted HTML page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/05/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-5094 represents a critical type confusion issue within the JavaScript bindings of Google Chrome extensions system. This flaw exists in versions prior to 60.0.3112.78 across multiple platforms including Mac, Windows, Linux, and Android operating systems. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of object types within the extension JavaScript environment where the browser fails to properly validate or distinguish between different data types during runtime operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a specific flaw in how Chrome's extension JavaScript bindings manage object references and type information. When a maliciously crafted HTML page is loaded, the attacker can exploit this type confusion by manipulating objects in a way that causes the JavaScript engine to incorrectly interpret the type of data being processed. This misinterpretation allows the attacker to potentially overwrite or modify objects in memory, leading to arbitrary code execution capabilities. The vulnerability specifically affects the interaction between the browser's JavaScript engine and its extension API, where type validation mechanisms fail to properly enforce object boundaries.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to users of affected Chrome versions as it enables remote code execution through web-based attacks. Attackers can craft malicious web pages that, when visited by a user with Chrome installed, can exploit this type confusion to gain unauthorized access to the system. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it requires no local privilege escalation or user interaction beyond visiting a compromised website. The vulnerability impacts all users of the affected Chrome versions regardless of their security awareness or system configurations, making it a widespread concern for enterprise and individual users alike.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-466, which describes the weakness of returning a pointer to an object of the wrong type, and relates to the broader category of type confusion flaws that have been consistently identified in web browsers and application frameworks. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving exploitation of software vulnerabilities and execution of malicious code through web-based delivery mechanisms. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it leverages the browser's extension system, which often has elevated privileges and access to user data, potentially allowing for more severe consequences than typical web-based exploits. Organizations should prioritize immediate patching of affected Chrome versions and implement network-based protections to mitigate potential exploitation attempts.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate deployment of Chrome version 60.0.3112.78 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for this vulnerability. Security administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls and content filtering solutions that can detect and block known malicious payloads. Browser hardening measures such as disabling unnecessary extensions and implementing strict content security policies can further reduce the attack surface. Additionally, user education regarding the dangers of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of keeping software updated remains crucial in defending against this and similar web-based exploits.