CVE-2022-4912 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE • 07/29/2023
Type Confusion in MathML in Google Chrome prior to 105.0.5195.52 allowed a remote attacker to potentially exploit heap corruption via a crafted HTML page. (Chromium security severity: High)
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/23/2023
This vulnerability represents a critical type confusion issue within Google Chrome's MathML processing engine that existed prior to version 105.0.5195.52. The flaw manifests when the browser encounters specially crafted HTML pages containing malicious MathML content that triggers improper type handling during rendering operations. Type confusion vulnerabilities occur when a program incorrectly handles data types, leading to situations where memory operations intended for one data type are performed on another, creating opportunities for memory corruption and arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability falls under the CWE-843 category of "Access of Resource Using Incompatible Type" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter execution through browser-based attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the browser's MathML parser and rendering components failing to properly validate type information during the processing of mathematical expressions. When Chrome encounters malformed or crafted MathML elements, the internal type checking mechanisms become confused, allowing attackers to manipulate memory layout through carefully constructed input that appears legitimate to the browser's parsing logic. This type confusion creates a pathway for heap corruption, where attacker-controlled data can overwrite critical memory structures or execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the browser process. The Chromium security severity classification as High reflects the potential for remote code execution and the ease with which attackers can leverage this vulnerability through standard web browsing activities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple browser exploitation to encompass potential system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities. Remote attackers can craft malicious web pages that, when viewed by victims using vulnerable Chrome versions, trigger the type confusion flaw and execute malicious code on the target system. This represents a significant threat vector for phishing campaigns, drive-by download attacks, and targeted exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's presence in the MathML processing pipeline means that legitimate mathematical content displayed in web browsers could potentially be exploited, making it particularly dangerous for educational institutions, scientific organizations, and any environment where mathematical content is commonly displayed. Organizations running vulnerable Chrome versions face increased risk of successful exploitation through social engineering attacks or compromised websites that serve malicious content.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of Chrome installations to version 105.0.5195.52 or later, which includes the necessary type checking improvements and memory safety enhancements. System administrators should prioritize deployment of security updates across all affected systems and implement network-level protections such as web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious MathML content. Browser hardening measures including sandboxing, content security policies, and strict MIME type validation can provide additional defense layers against exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing user education programs to raise awareness about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of keeping browser software updated. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date browser security patches and highlights the need for continuous monitoring of security advisories from vendors and security researchers to prevent successful exploitation of similar memory corruption vulnerabilities in the browser ecosystem.