With the vast amount of extensions available on the Google Chrome Web Store, user security has always been a major concern among browser developers. Unfortunately, in Google Chrome versions prior to 132..6834.83, a vulnerability—labeled as CVE-2025-0446—has been detected that could potentially allow a remote attacker to exploit an inappropriate implementation in extensions.
In this long read post, we will delve into the details of this vulnerability, including code snippets, original references, and the exploit method. This will allow you to better understand the issue at hand and be more vigilant when using Google Chrome extensions. Keep in mind that the Chromium security severity for this issue is marked as "Low."
What Is CVE-2025-0446?
CVE-2025-0446 refers to a security vulnerability discovered in the implementation of extensions in Google Chrome before version 132..6834.83. This vulnerability could allow a remote attacker who has persuaded a user to engage in specific User Interface (UI) gestures to perform UI spoofing via a crafted Chrome Extension.
To put it simply, a malicious extension can potentially trick users by displaying fake UI elements, mimicking the appearance of trusted websites, and cause users to unknowingly disclose sensitive information or perform unwanted actions.
Understanding the Exploit
The vulnerability in question primarily involves an inappropriate implementation within Google Chrome extensions, enabling an attacker to create a malicious extension that exploits it. When a user interacts with the compromised extension, it leads to the display of a deceptive overlay of UI elements.
Here are some original references to help in understanding this vulnerability better
1. Chromium Bug Tracker
2. Chrome Release Blog
3. Chromium Dashboard
Code Snippet
Let's take a look at a hypothetical code snippet that demonstrates how a malicious extension might make use of this vulnerability to perform UI spoofing.
// background.js
chrome.action.onClicked.addListener((tab) => {
chrome.tabs.executeScript(tab.id, {
file: "payload.js",
});
});
// manifest.json
{
// Omitted for brevity
"permissions": [
"activeTab",
"tabs",
],
// Omitted for brevity
}
// payload.js
(function() {
const spoofedElement = () => {
// Create an overlay containing the spoofed UI element
const overlay = document.createElement("div");
overlay.id = "spoofed-overlay";
overlay.style.cssText = "position: fixed; top: ; left: ; height: 100%; width: 100%; z-index: 9999;";
const fakeDialog = document.createElement("div");
fakeDialog.className = "spoofed-dialog";
fakeDialog.style.cssText = "position: absolute; top: 50%; left: 50%; transform: translate(-50%, -50%); width: 300px; height: 200px; background: white; border: 1px solid black;";
// Inject the fake dialog into the overlay
overlay.appendChild(fakeDialog);
// Inject the overlay into the DOM
document.body.appendChild(overlay);
};
spoofedElement();
})();
This hypothetical malicious extension would inject an overlay containing spoofed UI elements into the target website, potentially deceiving the user.
Mitigation and Updating Google Chrome
Thankfully, this vulnerability has been addressed in Google Chrome version 132..6834.83 and beyond. Therefore, to ensure your protection against this and similar vulnerabilities, make sure to:
Closing Thoughts
In conclusion, the CVE-2025-0446 vulnerability in Google Chrome extensions might not be the most severe issue, but it's still important to be aware of potential threats. Stay vigilant when installing and using browser extensions and keep your browser updated to ensure you're always safeguarded against any security vulnerabilities.
Timeline
Published on: 01/15/2025 11:15:10 UTC
Last modified on: 01/15/2025 15:15:15 UTC