CVE-2017-5031 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-5031, a 'use after free' vulnerability in Google Chrome allowing remote attackers to read memory beyond intended boundaries. Find mitigation steps and affected systems.
In older versions of Google Chrome for Windows (before 57.0.2987.98), a vulnerability in ANGLE allowed a remote attacker to exploit a 'use after free' issue. This flaw enabled the attacker to read memory beyond its intended boundaries by using a specially crafted HTML page.
Understanding CVE-2017-5031
What is CVE-2017-5031?
A 'use after free' vulnerability in ANGLE in Google Chrome prior to version 57.0.2987.98 for Windows allowed a remote attacker to perform an out-of-bounds memory read through a crafted HTML page.
The Impact of CVE-2017-5031
This vulnerability could be exploited by a remote attacker to read memory beyond its intended boundaries, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive information.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-5031
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in ANGLE in Google Chrome allowed a remote attacker to perform an out-of-bounds memory read via a specially crafted HTML page.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Firefox ESR
- Vendor: Mozilla
- Versions Affected: < 52.1.1
- Product: Firefox
- Vendor: Mozilla
- Versions Affected: < 53.0.2
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability could be exploited by a remote attacker through a specially crafted HTML page.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Google Chrome to version 57.0.2987.98 or newer.
- Apply patches provided by Mozilla for Firefox ESR and Firefox.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update browsers and software to the latest versions.
- Exercise caution when visiting unknown or untrusted websites.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that all software, including browsers and related components, are regularly updated to the latest versions to mitigate known vulnerabilities.