CVE-2017-5109 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Inappropriate implementation of unload handler handling in permission prompts in Google Chrome prior to 60.0.3112.78 for Linux, Windows, and Mac allowed a remote attacker to display UI on a non attacker controlled tab via a crafted HTML page.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/27/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-5109 represents a critical flaw in Google Chrome's handling of permission prompts and unload handlers on Linux, Windows, and Mac platforms. This issue stems from an improper implementation of how the browser manages the interaction between unload event handlers and user interface elements that appear during permission requests. The flaw exists in Chrome versions prior to 60.0.3112.78, creating a significant security risk that could be exploited by remote attackers to manipulate user interface behavior in unintended ways.
The technical implementation flaw occurs when a malicious website attempts to trigger a permission prompt while simultaneously manipulating an unload handler. Under normal circumstances, when a user navigates away from a page, the browser should properly handle the unload event and display appropriate permission prompts. However, this vulnerability allows an attacker to craft a malicious HTML page that can force the browser to display permission prompts on tabs that are not controlled by the attacker, effectively bypassing normal security boundaries. The exploit leverages the timing and interaction between these two browser mechanisms to achieve unauthorized UI manipulation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple UI manipulation, as it creates potential for phishing attacks and social engineering exploits. When a remote attacker can display permission prompts on arbitrary tabs, they can potentially trick users into granting permissions to malicious websites or applications. This capability undermines the fundamental security model of web browsers, where users expect to have control over which prompts appear and when. The vulnerability particularly affects users who may be browsing multiple tabs simultaneously, as the malicious prompt could appear on a tab containing sensitive information or banking applications. This type of attack falls under the category of user interface deception and can be particularly dangerous when combined with other social engineering techniques.
The vulnerability demonstrates weaknesses in Chrome's permission prompt system and unload handler management that aligns with CWE-691, which addresses inadequate control of a resource through a mechanism that allows the resource to be accessed or modified by unauthorized users. From an adversarial perspective, this flaw provides a vector for attackers to manipulate browser behavior in ways that could lead to credential theft, data exfiltration, or installation of malicious software. Security researchers have noted that this vulnerability could be exploited in conjunction with other techniques to create more sophisticated attacks, potentially leading to full system compromise. The impact is particularly severe because it affects all supported operating systems and can be executed through standard web browsing without requiring any special privileges or user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-5109 primarily involve updating to Chrome version 60.0.3112.78 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the improper handling of unload handlers in permission prompts. Organizations should also implement network-level controls and browser hardening measures to reduce the attack surface, including disabling unnecessary browser features and implementing strict content security policies. Users should be educated about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of carefully reviewing permission prompts before granting access. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual browser behavior patterns and potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and browser isolation techniques can provide additional layers of protection against similar vulnerabilities that may exist in other browser components or related systems.