Microsoft Edge Vulnerability: Information Disclosure
By Joshua Bourns on May 3, 2024
Executive Summary
On February 23, 2024, Microsoft disclosed a vulnerability (CVE-2024-26192) affecting Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based). This vulnerability allows attackers to potentially disclose sensitive information through a specially crafted website. While user interaction is necessary for exploitation, it highlights the importance of applying security updates promptly. Microsoft has released a security update addressing the issue, urging users to update their browsers.
Background
Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based) is a widely used web browser pre-installed on Windows 10 and 11 machines. It leverages Chromium, an open-source project also forming the foundation for Google Chrome. This vulnerability affects the Chromium codebase, potentially impacting other Chromium-based browsers as well.
Technical Details
Specific technical details of the vulnerability haven’t been publicly disclosed by Microsoft to prevent exploitation attempts. However, based on the limited information available and similar vulnerabilities in Chromium, the exploit might involve:
Improper Data Handling: The vulnerability might be related to the browser’s handling of certain data within web pages. This could allow attackers to manipulate the browser’s behavior and potentially disclose sensitive information inadvertently.
JavaScript Engine Exploitation: Another possibility involves exploiting vulnerabilities within the browser’s JavaScript engine. By injecting malicious code through a crafted website, attackers might be able to access and leak sensitive information processed by the browser.
Impact
The vulnerability allows for information disclosure, but the specific type of information at risk is unclear. Potential information that could be leaked includes:
• Browsing history: Attackers might be able to gain access to a user’s browsing history, revealing the websites they have visited.
• Cookies: Information stored in cookies, such as login credentials or user preferences, could be exposed if compromised.
• Temporary data: The vulnerability might allow access to temporary data processed by the browser, potentially revealing sensitive information depending on the context.
While severity of the impact depends on the type of information leaked and how attackers utilize it, the National Vulnerability Database scores it as an 8.2 (High).
Mitigation Strategies
Users of Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based) are strongly encouraged to update their browsers to the latest version as soon as possible. Microsoft releases security updates regularly, and the latest update addresses this vulnerability. Also, practicing safe browsing habits, such as avoiding untrusted websites and exercising caution when opening links, can further minimize the risk of exploitation.
Conclusion
The information disclosure vulnerability in Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based) highlights the importance of browser security and keeping software updated. While the specific impact remains unclear, it emphasizes the potential risks associated with vulnerabilities. Users should prioritize browser updates, maintain a healthy dose of skepticism when browsing the web, and follow best practices for online safety.
References
[1] The Chromium Project, “V8 Javascript engine. Google Git,” Dec. 15, 2023 https://chromium.googlesource.com/v8/v8/
[2] Cornerstone IT, “Microsoft Edge Data manipulation vulnerability. Hong Kong Computer Emergency Response Team Coordination Center,” Feb. 10, 2024 https://www.hkcert.org/security-bulletin/microsoft-edge-data-manipulation-vulnerability_20221101
[3] Dan-Wesley, “Release notes for Microsoft Edge Security updates. Microsoft Learn,” Feb. 23, 2024 https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/DeployEdge/microsoft-edge-relnotes-security
[4] NIST, “Common weakness enumeration. CWE,” Sep. 22, 2023 https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/200.html
[5] NIST, “CVE-2024-26192 Detail. NVD,” Feb. 23, 2024 https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2024-26192
[6] Tenable, “Microsoft Edge (chromium) > 120.0.2210.61 Multiple Vulnerabilities. Tenable,” Jan. 5, 2024 https://www.tenable.com/plugins/nessus/174286