Re: [WEB SECURITY] Re: Minimal User Interaction with Links

["Steven M. Christey" <coley () linus mitre org>]

On Fri, 14 Aug 2009, Micheal Espinola Jr wrote:

> Under normal circumstances, no, it is not possible in this day and age
> (i.e with an up-to-date OS) to automatically execute/save a file by
> clicking a link.

It's possible to do this automatically, without any user interaction, by
referencing vulnerable ActiveX controls with insecure exposed methods with
names like DownloadAndExecuteFile() (see CVE-2008-4586 for example).

These types of issues are starting to show up fairly regularly in CVE.
Very few researchers seem to be paying attention to Firefox plug-ins, but
once they do, I expect to see similar results there, too.

Theoretically it's within the browsers' security models to avoid the
automatic save/execute of files, but browser bugs and the aforementioned
plugin vulnerabilities mean that practically speaking, it's still
possible.  I assume the more knowledgeable Flash experts among us have
their own suggestions.

- Steve

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Securing Apache Web Server with thawte Digital Certificate
In this guide we examine the importance of Apache-SSL and who needs an SSL certificate.  We look at how SSL works, how 
it benefits your company and how your customers can tell if a site is secure. You will find out how to test, purchase, 
install and use a thawte Digital Certificate on your Apache web server. Throughout, best practices for set-up are 
highlighted to help you ensure efficient ongoing management of your encryption keys and digital certificates.

http://www.dinclinx.com/Redirect.aspx?36;4175;25;1371;0;5;946;e13b6be442f727d1
------------------------------------------------------------------------