CVE-2017-5066 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Google Chrome prior to version 58.0.3029.81 for Mac, Windows, and Linux, and 58.0.3029.83 for Android had a vulnerability in signature handling that could allow a remote attacker to exploit the networking stack.

Understanding CVE-2017-5066

Before version 58.0.3029.81 for Mac, Windows, and Linux, and 58.0.3029.83 for Android, the Google Chrome networking stack had inadequate consistency checks in signature handling, enabling a remote attacker to accept a poorly constructed X.509 certificate through a manipulated HTML page.

What is CVE-2017-5066?

In Google Chrome versions prior to 58.0.3029.81 for Mac, Windows, and Linux, and 58.0.3029.83 for Android, a vulnerability existed in the networking stack's signature handling.
This flaw could be exploited by a remote attacker to trick the system into accepting a malformed X.509 certificate via a specially crafted HTML page.

The Impact of CVE-2017-5066

A remote attacker could exploit this vulnerability to deceive the system into accepting an improperly formed X.509 certificate.
This could lead to potential security breaches and unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-5066

Google Chrome prior to version 58.0.3029.81 for Mac, Windows, and Linux, and 58.0.3029.83 for Android was affected by the following:

Vulnerability Description

Insufficient consistency checks in signature handling in the networking stack allowed a remote attacker to incorrectly accept a badly formed X.509 certificate via a crafted HTML page.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Google Chrome prior to 58.0.3029.81 for Mac, Windows, and Linux, and 58.0.3029.83 for Android

Exploitation Mechanism

A remote attacker could exploit this vulnerability by presenting a poorly constructed X.509 certificate through a manipulated HTML page.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2017-5066, consider the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Google Chrome to version 58.0.3029.81 for Mac, Windows, and Linux, and 58.0.3029.83 for Android to mitigate the vulnerability.
Exercise caution while browsing and avoid clicking on suspicious links or visiting untrusted websites.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update your web browser and other software to the latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement secure browsing habits and be cautious of downloading files from unknown sources.
Consider using additional security tools such as antivirus software and firewalls.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by Google Chrome to address vulnerabilities like CVE-2017-5066.