OVERVIEW:
A vulnerability has been discovered in Google Chrome, which could allow for arbitrary code execution. Google Chrome is a web browser used to access the Internet. Successful exploitation of this vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code in the context of the browser. Depending on the privileges associated with the application, an attacker could view, change, or delete data. If this application has been configured to have fewer user rights on the system, exploitation of the vulnerability could have less impact than if it was configured with administrative rights.
THREAT INTELLIGENCE: There are currently reports of this vulnerability being exploited in the wild.
SYSTEMS AFFECTED:
- Google Chrome versions prior to 88.0.4324.150
RISK:
Government:
- Large and medium government entities: High
- Small government entities: Medium
Businesses:
- Large and medium business entities: High
- Small business entities: Medium
Home users: Low
TECHNICAL SUMMARY:
A vulnerability has been discovered in Google Chrome, which could allow for arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability exists due to a heap buffer overflow in the ‘V8’ javascript engine of Chrome.
Successful exploitation of this vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code in the context of the browser. Depending on the privileges associated with this application, an attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full user rights. If this application has been configured to have fewer user rights on the system, exploitation of this vulnerability could have less impact than if it was configured with administrative rights.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
We recommend the following actions be taken:
- Apply the stable channel update provided by Google to vulnerable systems immediately after appropriate testing.
- Run all software as a non-privileged user (one without administrative privileges) to diminish the effects of a successful attack.
- Remind users not to visit un-trusted websites or follow links provided by unknown or un-trusted sources.
- Inform and educate users regarding the threats posed by hypertext links contained in emails or attachments especially from un-trusted sources.
- Apply the Principle of Least Privilege to all systems and services.
REFERENCES:
Google:
https://chromereleases.googleblog.com/2021/02/stable-channel-update-for-desktop_4.html
CVE:
http://cve.mitre.org/cgi-bin/cvename.cgi?name=CVE-2021-21148