CVE-2022-42956 in PassWork Extension
Summary
by MITRE • 11/07/2022
The PassWork extension 5.0.9 for Chrome and other browsers allows an attacker to obtain the cleartext master password.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/05/2022
The PassWork extension version 5.0.9 for chrome and other browsers contains a critical security flaw that exposes cleartext master passwords to attackers. This vulnerability represents a fundamental failure in password management extension security where sensitive authentication credentials are stored and transmitted without proper encryption or protection mechanisms. The flaw exists within the extension's handling of master password storage and retrieval processes, creating an attack surface that allows unauthorized access to user credentials. This type of vulnerability directly impacts the core security promise of password management tools, which are expected to protect sensitive authentication data from malicious actors.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of master password storage within the browser extension environment. Attackers can exploit this weakness to extract cleartext passwords through various means including direct memory inspection, extension API manipulation, or by leveraging other browser-based attack vectors. The vulnerability essentially removes the cryptographic protection that should normally safeguard master passwords, leaving them exposed in plain text format. This flaw aligns with common weakness patterns identified in the CWE database under categories related to insufficient encryption and improper credential handling. The attack surface is particularly concerning because browser extensions operate with elevated privileges and have direct access to user data, making them attractive targets for exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it fundamentally undermines the security posture of users who rely on password managers for protection. When master passwords are exposed in cleartext, attackers gain complete access to all stored credentials within the password manager, potentially leading to widespread account compromise across multiple services. This vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including malicious websites, browser-based attacks, or through compromised extension environments. The risk is compounded by the fact that many users depend on password managers for their primary authentication security mechanism, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous. According to ATT&CK framework concepts, this vulnerability maps to credential access techniques where attackers can extract stored credentials from compromised systems or applications, specifically targeting the password manager extension as a key target.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate extension updates and user education regarding the risks of using outdated password manager versions. Users should be advised to immediately update to patched versions of the PassWork extension and consider temporarily disabling the extension until proper updates are installed. Security teams should implement monitoring for suspicious extension activity and ensure that browser extensions are regularly updated and vetted for security compliance. Organizations should consider implementing additional authentication layers such as multi-factor authentication to reduce the impact of credential compromise. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper security testing for browser extensions and emphasizes the need for robust credential handling practices that prevent cleartext storage of sensitive authentication data. System administrators should also consider implementing extension whitelisting policies and regularly audit browser extension installations to prevent the execution of vulnerable or untrusted extensions.