CVE-2018-16080 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
A missing check for popup window handling in Fullscreen in Google Chrome on macOS prior to 69.0.3497.81 allowed a remote attacker to spoof the contents of the Omnibox (URL bar) via a crafted HTML page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/23/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-16080 represents a critical security flaw in Google Chrome's handling of fullscreen mode on macOS systems. This issue stems from an insufficient validation mechanism within the browser's popup window management system when operating in fullscreen display mode. The vulnerability specifically affects Chrome versions prior to 69.0.3497.81, creating a window of exposure where malicious actors could exploit the missing validation checks to manipulate user interface elements.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through crafted HTML pages that exploit the browser's failure to properly validate popup window behaviors during fullscreen operations. When Chrome enters fullscreen mode, the normal security boundaries that typically protect against spoofing attacks are weakened or bypassed entirely due to the missing popup window validation. This allows an attacker to manipulate the Omnibox, which serves as the primary location for URL display and verification in the browser interface. The Omnibox is a critical security component that users rely upon to verify website authenticity and prevent phishing attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple visual deception, as it fundamentally undermines user trust in the browser's security mechanisms. Attackers can leverage this flaw to display misleading URL information, potentially redirecting users to malicious websites while maintaining the appearance of legitimate browsing. This spoofing capability creates a significant risk for users who may unknowingly navigate to harmful destinations, as the manipulated Omnibox content can appear identical to legitimate website addresses. The vulnerability particularly affects users who frequently utilize fullscreen mode for extended browsing sessions, as the risk persists during these extended periods of browser interaction.
This issue aligns with CWE-611, which addresses improper access control in web applications, and demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining proper validation mechanisms even in seemingly secure browser contexts. The vulnerability also maps to ATT&CK technique T1059, specifically related to the use of malicious HTML content to execute deceptive operations. Organizations and individuals should prioritize updating to Chrome version 69.0.3497.81 or later to remediate this vulnerability, as the patch addresses the core validation gap in popup window handling during fullscreen operations. Security teams should also implement monitoring for suspicious HTML content and consider user education regarding the importance of verifying URL authenticity even when browsing in fullscreen mode, particularly when engaging with untrusted websites or downloading content.