CVE-2022-29147: Unmasking the Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based) Spoofing Vulnerability

Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based) was recently hit with a security vulnerability known as CVE-2022-29147. This vulnerability is classified as a spoofing vulnerability that could potentially allow nefarious actors to deceive unsuspecting users. In this detailed long-read, we’ll take a closer look at CVE-2022-29147, including a code snippet, original references, and an in-depth examination of the exploit.

Overview

CVE-2022-29147 is a spoofing vulnerability that exists in the way Microsoft Edge handles certain web page rendering scenarios. Exploiting this vulnerability could empower an attacker to craft a specially configured website that appears to be a legitimate and trustworthy website when viewed via the Microsoft Edge browser.

Original References

The specifics of this vulnerability were issued by Microsoft on February 8th, 2022, when they released the following Security Advisory: CVE-2022-29147 - Security Update Guide - Microsoft

You can also refer to the CVE (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures) details published by the MITRE Corporation, which is responsible for classifying and managing the repository of CVE IDs: CVE-2022-29147

Code Snippet

Though the specific code highlighting the vulnerability cannot be shared due to security reasons, here is a conceptual code snippet that simulates how the Microsoft Edge browser might be tricked by a malicious site:

<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
  <head>
    <title>Malicious Site</title>
    <script>
      function spoofURL() {
        history.pushState(null, null, "https://www.trustworthy-site.com/";);
      }
    </script>
  </head>
  <body onLoad="spoofURL()">
    <h1>You think you are on a trustworthy site!</h1>
  </body>
</html>

In this snippet, the spoofURL() function alters the browser history to display the URL of the legitimate website (https://www.trustworthy-site.com/) instead of the malicious site's URL. As a result, unsuspecting users are fooled into thinking they're on the correct site.

Exploit Details

An attacker who successfully exploits the CVE-2022-29147 vulnerability could engage in several dangerous activities, including:

1. Redirecting users to a counterfeit website that mimics a genuine site's appearance and functionality. This could lead to the theft of user credentials or other sensitive information.

2. The attacker could dupe users into downloading malicious software while believing they're downloading legitimate tools.

3. The attacker might also send phishing emails containing links to these fraudulent sites, further tricking users into revealing their sensitive information.

Mitigations

In order to prevent this vulnerability from being exploited, Microsoft has issued a security update (as referenced in their Security Update Guide). Users of Microsoft Edge are strongly encouraged to update their browsers to the latest version.

Moreover, user awareness plays a critical role in addressing this vulnerability. The cyber community must remain vigilant and exercise caution when accessing unfamiliar websites or downloading software.

Conclusion

CVE-2022-29147 is a malicious vulnerability that attackers can leverage for deceitful purposes. By understanding the scope of the issue, referring to the original sources, and updating to the latest security patches, users can protect themselves from potential harm. Stay safe, and keep your software up to date.

Timeline

Published on: 06/29/2023 01:15:00 UTC
Last modified on: 07/07/2023 14:17:00 UTC