CVE-2024-2628 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE • 03/20/2024
Inappropriate implementation in Downloads in Google Chrome prior to 123.0.6312.58 allowed a remote attacker to perform UI spoofing via a crafted URL. (Chromium security severity: Medium)
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/13/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-2628 represents a UI spoofing flaw within Google Chrome's download handling mechanism that existed prior to version 123.0.6312.58. This issue falls under the category of improper implementation where the browser fails to adequately validate or sanitize URL inputs during download operations, creating opportunities for malicious actors to manipulate user interfaces. The vulnerability is classified as medium severity by Chromium security standards, indicating potential risks to user experience and security posture without necessarily enabling complete system compromise.
The technical implementation flaw occurs when Chrome processes download requests through crafted URLs that exploit the browser's user interface rendering mechanisms. Attackers can construct malicious URLs that appear legitimate to users while simultaneously triggering deceptive UI elements that misrepresent the actual download source or destination. This type of vulnerability specifically targets the browser's trust model where users rely on visual cues to verify download origins, making it particularly dangerous in phishing scenarios where attackers can manipulate the download interface to appear as if it originates from trusted sources.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables remote attackers to conduct deception attacks where users might unknowingly download malicious content while believing they are accessing legitimate resources. The UI spoofing capability allows threat actors to manipulate download progress indicators, file names, and destination paths to mislead users into trusting malicious downloads. This type of attack vector aligns with common social engineering techniques and can be particularly effective in enterprise environments where users may not recognize subtle UI manipulations during download processes.
The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-601 URL Redirection to Untrusted Site, where applications fail to properly validate or sanitize URLs that could lead users to malicious destinations. It also relates to ATT&CK technique T1566.001 Phishing, as the UI manipulation directly supports social engineering attacks that exploit user trust in familiar interface elements. The attack requires minimal user interaction beyond clicking on a malicious link, making it particularly effective in automated phishing campaigns or targeted attacks where attackers can craft convincing download prompts.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate browser updates to version 123.0.6312.58 or later where the vulnerability has been patched. Organizations should implement network-level controls to monitor and block suspicious download URLs, particularly those containing unusual domain patterns or attempting to redirect to untrusted sources. User education remains crucial in recognizing potentially deceptive download interfaces, though this approach is less effective against sophisticated attacks. Additionally, browser security policies should include enhanced URL validation mechanisms and regular security audits to identify similar implementation flaws in download handling components. The patch addresses the core validation issue in Chrome's download subsystem by implementing stricter URL parsing and UI rendering controls that prevent malicious manipulation of download interface elements.