CVE-2023-2726 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE • 05/16/2023
Inappropriate implementation in WebApp Installs in Google Chrome prior to 113.0.5672.126 allowed an attacker who convinced a user to install a malicious web app to bypass install dialog via a crafted HTML page. (Chromium security severity: Medium)
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/09/2023
This vulnerability resides in the web application installation mechanism within Google Chrome browsers prior to version 113.0.5672.126, representing a medium severity issue according to Chromium security guidelines. The flaw stems from an inadequate validation process during the web application installation workflow where the browser fails to properly verify the authenticity and safety of installation requests. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious HTML pages that manipulate the installation dialog, effectively bypassing the standard user confirmation prompts that should normally prevent unauthorized web application installations. This vulnerability specifically targets the user interface elements responsible for web app installation and the underlying security checks that should validate installation sources before proceeding with the installation process.
The technical implementation flaw occurs within Chrome's web application installation subsystem where the browser's security model fails to properly enforce restrictions on how installation prompts can be triggered. When a user visits a malicious webpage, the attacker can programmatically initiate an installation request that circumvents the normal user interaction requirements. This bypass mechanism allows the malicious web application to be installed without proper user consent, potentially leading to unwanted software installations that could include malware or other harmful applications. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-602 as "Client Side URL Redirect" but more specifically relates to improper input validation and insufficient access control in the web application installation process. The flaw demonstrates a failure in the principle of least privilege where the installation mechanism does not adequately validate the source or intent of installation requests.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized installations, as it creates a vector for social engineering attacks that can deceive users into installing malicious applications without their knowledge or explicit consent. Attackers can craft convincing phishing pages that appear legitimate while silently installing harmful applications in the background. This represents a significant risk to user security and privacy, as the installed applications could potentially access user data, monitor browsing activity, or serve as entry points for more sophisticated attacks. The vulnerability aligns with attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1176 for "Browser Extensions") and T1059 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter" where malicious installations can serve as initial access points for broader compromise. Organizations and individual users face increased risk of targeted attacks, especially in environments where users may be less security-aware or where the attack surface includes legitimate but compromised websites.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate browser updates to version 113.0.5672.126 or later where the vulnerability has been patched. Users should also implement additional security layers including browser extension management, regular security updates, and user education about suspicious installation prompts. Organizations should consider implementing web filtering solutions and monitoring for unauthorized application installations. The patch addresses the core validation issue by strengthening the installation dialog verification process and ensuring that all installation requests undergo proper authentication and user consent checks. Security teams should also monitor for indicators of compromise related to unexpected web application installations and maintain updated threat intelligence regarding similar vulnerabilities in web browsers and web application frameworks.