Opera Software Opera Web Browser createSVGTransformFromMatrix Object
Typecasting Vulnerability

iDefense Security Advisory 01.05.07
http://labs.idefense.com/intelligence/vulnerabilities/
Jan 05, 2007

I. BACKGROUND

Opera is a cross-platform web browser. More information is available at
http://www.opera.com/

II. DESCRIPTION

Remote exploitation of a typecasting bug in Opera Software ASA's Opera Web
browser could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code on the affected
host.

A flaw exists within Opera's Javascript SVG implementation. When processing
a createSVGTransformFromMatrix request Opera does not properly validate the
type of object passed to the function. Passing an incorrect object to this
function can result in it using a pointer that is user controlled when it
attempts to make the virtual function call.

III. ANALYSIS

Exploitation of this vulnerability would allow an attacker to execute
arbitrary code on the affected host. The attacker would first need to
construct a website containing the malicious JavaScript and trick the
vulnerable user into visiting the site.  This would trigger the
vulnerability and allow the code to execute with the privileges of the
local user.

IV. DETECTION

iDefense has confirmed the existence of this vulnerability in Opera version
9.02 on both Windows and Linux. Previous versions may also be affected.

V. WORKAROUND

Disabling JavaScript will prevent the vulnerability from being triggered.

VI. VENDOR RESPONSE

Opera Software has addressed this vulnerability in version 9.10. More
information is available at the following link.

http://www.opera.com/support/search/supsearch.dml?index=852

VII. CVE INFORMATION

A Mitre Corp. Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) number has not
been assigned yet.

VIII. DISCLOSURE TIMELINE

11/16/2006  Initial vendor notification
11/17/2006  Initial vendor response
01/05/2007  Coordinated public disclosure

IX. CREDIT

The discoverer of this vulnerability wishes to remain anonymous.

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X. LEGAL NOTICES

Copyright © 2006 iDefense, Inc.

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Disclaimer: The information in the advisory is believed to be accurate at
the time of publishing based on currently available information. Use of
the information constitutes acceptance for use in an AS IS condition.
There are no warranties with regard to this information. Neither the
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or consequential loss or damage arising from use of, or reliance on, this
information.