CVE-2020-6498 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Incorrect implementation in user interface in Google Chrome on iOS prior to 83.0.4103.88 allowed a remote attacker to perform domain spoofing via a crafted HTML page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/04/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-6498 represents a critical user interface implementation flaw in Google Chrome for iOS platforms that existed prior to version 83.0.4103.88. This security weakness stems from insufficient validation mechanisms within the browser's rendering engine that processes web content, specifically affecting how the user interface displays information about web pages. The flaw manifests as an inability to properly verify and display domain information, creating an environment where malicious actors can exploit the interface to deceive users about the true origin of web content. This vulnerability falls under the category of user interface security issues that directly impact user trust and the integrity of web browsing experiences.
The technical implementation flaw involves the browser's handling of URL display and domain verification within the iOS user interface components. When processing crafted HTML pages, Chrome fails to adequately validate the domain information presented to users, allowing attackers to manipulate how the browser displays the originating domain. This manipulation occurs through carefully constructed web pages that exploit the gap in validation logic, potentially causing the browser to display misleading domain information while the actual page content remains under attacker control. The vulnerability specifically affects the iOS version of Chrome where the user interface rendering components do not properly implement domain verification checks that should occur during page load and display operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple deception, creating significant risks for users who may be tricked into believing they are visiting legitimate websites when actually interacting with malicious content. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw to execute domain spoofing attacks that closely mimic trusted domains, potentially leading to credential theft, financial fraud, or data exfiltration. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that iOS users rely heavily on Chrome for their browsing needs, making this vulnerability a prime target for social engineering campaigns. Users may unknowingly enter sensitive information on pages that appear to be from trusted sources, while the browser interface fails to provide adequate warnings or verification mechanisms.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-601, which addresses URL redirection and forward slash vulnerabilities in user interfaces, and relates to ATT&CK technique T1531 which covers "Modify System Image" through browser manipulation. The flaw represents a failure in input validation and user interface security controls that should prevent such domain spoofing scenarios. Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including mandatory browser updates, user education about suspicious domain indicators, and network monitoring for potential exploitation attempts. The fix implemented in Chrome version 83.0.4103.88 addressed the core validation logic and strengthened the interface's domain verification mechanisms to prevent attackers from manipulating the displayed domain information. Security teams should prioritize patching this vulnerability across all iOS devices and monitor for related attack patterns that may attempt to exploit similar interface validation weaknesses.