CVE-2023-3733 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE • 08/02/2023
Inappropriate implementation in WebApp Installs in Google Chrome prior to 115.0.5790.98 allowed a remote attacker to potentially spoof the contents of the Omnibox (URL bar) via a crafted HTML page. (Chromium security severity: Medium)
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/09/2023
This vulnerability resides within the web application installation functionality of google chrome browsers version 115.0.5790.98 and earlier. The issue stems from an improper implementation that allows malicious actors to manipulate the omnibox display through carefully crafted html pages. The omnibox represents a critical user interface element where users input urls and where security indicators are typically visible. When exploited, this flaw could enable attackers to display misleading information within the address bar, potentially deceiving users about the true destination of their navigation. The vulnerability falls under chromium security severity classification as medium, indicating a moderate risk to user security and privacy.
The technical flaw manifests in how chrome handles web application installations and subsequently displays information within the omnibox interface. When users encounter a crafted html page during the installation process, the browser fails to properly validate or sanitize the displayed content, allowing attackers to inject misleading text or visual elements into the url bar. This improper handling creates a spoofing opportunity where the browser's display does not accurately represent the actual web page being accessed. The vulnerability specifically impacts the user interface validation mechanisms that should ensure consistent and trustworthy presentation of web navigation information.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple visual deception to potentially enable phishing attacks and social engineering schemes. Users may be misled into believing they are visiting legitimate websites when actually navigating to malicious domains, particularly when the spoofed content closely mimics trusted interfaces. Attackers could exploit this to create convincing fake login pages, banking interfaces, or other high-value targets. The medium severity classification reflects the potential for significant user deception without requiring elevated privileges or complex attack vectors. This type of vulnerability directly impacts user trust in browser security mechanisms and can undermine broader cybersecurity defenses by enabling more sophisticated attack chains.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate browser updates to version 115.0.5790.98 or later where the vulnerability has been patched. Organizations should implement comprehensive browser security policies and user education programs to help identify suspicious navigation behaviors. Additional protective measures include network monitoring for unusual traffic patterns and user awareness training about verifying url bar information before entering sensitive data. This vulnerability aligns with common attack patterns documented in the attack tactic of credential access through phishing and deception techniques. The issue also relates to CWE-20 Improper Input Validation and CWE-345 Insufficient Verification of Data Authenticity, highlighting the need for robust input sanitization and verification mechanisms in browser security implementations.