Full Report
Popular Chrome extensions exposed user data by sending it over unencrypted HTTP, raising privacy concerns. Symantec urges caution for users.
Analysis Summary
# Vulnerability: Popular Chrome Extensions Leaking Data via Unencrypted Connections
## CVE Details
- CVE ID: Information not provided in the text.
- CVSS Score: Information not provided in the text.
- CWE: Information not provided in the text.
## Affected Systems
- Products: Popular Google Chrome Extensions (Specific extensions not named).
- Versions: Any versions transmitting data over unencrypted connections.
- Configurations: Extensions configured or operating in a manner that allows data transmission over unencrypted HTTP connections.
## Vulnerability Description
Several popular Chrome extensions were identified as leaking user data by transmitting it over unencrypted HTTP connections rather than secure HTTPS. This failure to use encryption exposes sensitive user information transmitted between the extension and its backend servers to eavesdropping.
## Exploitation
- Status: Details on active exploitation are not specified, but the flaw exists.
- Complexity: Likely Low (If an attacker is positioned to capture local network traffic or MITM the connection).
- Attack Vector: Network (Requires an attacker capable of intercepting unencrypted traffic).
## Impact
- Confidentiality: High (Sensitive user data can be exposed in transit).
- Integrity: Low (Direct impact on integrity is less certain, though data modification could be possible if HTTPS is bypassed).
- Availability: Low (No direct impact on system availability).
## Remediation
### Patches
Since the issue appears related to the implementation within the extensions themselves, specific patch versions are not detailed. Users should look for updates from the respective extension developers.
### Workarounds
- Users are urged to exercise caution.
- Ideally, configure/ensure that any data transmitted by extensions is sent only over secure, encrypted (HTTPS) channels.
- Consider uninstalling extensions confirmed to transmit data insecurely until fixes are available.
## Detection
- Detection methods generally involve network monitoring (e.g., using tools like Wireshark) to check outgoing connections initiated by Chrome extension processes and verify if they use HTTP instead of HTTPS.
- Indicators of compromise would be network logs showing sensitive data being sent to external servers over unencrypted port 80 (HTTP).
## References
- Vendor advisories: Symantec urged caution (Source mentioned).
- Relevant links - defanged:
- hxxps://hackread.com/popular-chrome-extensions-data-leak-unencrypted-connection/