CVE-2025-0448, a vulnerability that reflects an inappropriate implementation in compositing in Google Chrome prior to version 132..6834.83, potentially allows remote attackers to perform UI spoofing through a specifically crafted HTML page. While the Chromium security team has marked the severity of this vulnerability as "Low," it still poses potential risks to users.
In this long read post, we will highlight exploit details, along with some code snippets and links to original references. Additionally, we address mitigation measures that users can take to protect themselves.
Exploit Details
CVE-2025-0448 arises from an incorrect implementation of compositing in Google Chrome. Compositing is a software technique that combines visual elements from separate sources into a single image, used in web rendering engines to display complex web pages, animations, and visual effects.
Using a carefully developed HTML page, an attacker can exploit this vulnerability to mislead users on a website by spoofing the user interface (UI). This may allow an attacker to create a false sense of trust in the website, potentially enabling them to extract sensitive information such as login credentials.
Code Snippets
Below, you can find sample HTML and JavaScript code snippets demonstrating how a vulnerable version of Google Chrome could be exploited by an attacker to spoof a website's UI:
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
<style>
#spoofed-element {
position: absolute;
left: ;
top: ;
z-index: -1;
}
</style>
</head>
<body>
<div id="genuine-element">
Genuine content here...
</div>
<div id="spoofed-element">
Spoofed content here...
</div>
<script>
window.addEventListener('load', function() {
let spoofedElement = document.getElementById('spoofed-element');
let vulnerableFunction = function() {
// code to alter spoofedElement position or z-index here
};
window.requestAnimationFrame(vulnerableFunction);
});
</script>
</body>
</html>
The code above demonstrates how an attacker may create a web page containing both genuine and spoofed content. The spoofed-element would be manipulated in such a way that it would appear genuine to users, potentially misleading them into interacting with the element.
References
For further information regarding CVE-2025-0448 and related patches and releases, please refer to the following links:
1. Chromium Security Release Notes
2. Chromium Commit Log (fix)
3. National Vulnerability Database
Mitigation and Recommendations
To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2025-0448, users should ensure that they are using updated versions of Google Chrome (version 132..6834.83 or later).
It's crucial to keep your browser and other software up to date, as attackers often exploit known vulnerabilities in out-of-date applications. Additionally, practicing good web browsing habits, such as paying attention to URLs and website legitimacy, will help limit the impacts of similar vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
While the security severity of CVE-2025-0448 has been marked as "Low," it's essential for users to understand its implications and take necessary precautions to maintain safe browsing habits. By staying informed, keeping software up to date, and being cautious online, users can reduce their risks and maintain a secure browsing experience.
Timeline
Published on: 01/15/2025 11:15:10 UTC
Last modified on: 01/15/2025 15:15:16 UTC