CVE-2018-18344 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Google Chrome before version 71.0.3578.80 had a vulnerability in the Extensions feature allowing unauthorized access to the local file system.

Understanding CVE-2018-18344

This CVE involves an inappropriate implementation in Google Chrome's Extensions feature, potentially exploited by a malicious actor.

What is CVE-2018-18344?

Before version 71.0.3578.80 in Google Chrome, a flaw in the Extensions feature allowed improper usage of the setDownloadBehavior devtools protocol, enabling unauthorized access to the local file system via a crafted Chrome Extension.

The Impact of CVE-2018-18344

The vulnerability could be exploited by a malicious individual with control over an installed extension, leading to unauthorized access to the local file system.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-18344

Google Chrome's vulnerability details and affected systems.

Vulnerability Description

Inappropriate allowance of the setDownloadBehavior devtools protocol feature in Extensions in Google Chrome prior to version 71.0.3578.80 allowed a remote attacker with control of an installed extension to access files on the local file system via a crafted Chrome Extension.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Google Chrome
Vendor: Google
Versions affected: Before 71.0.3578.80

Exploitation Mechanism

The flaw could be exploited by a malicious individual with control over an installed extension to gain unauthorized access to the local file system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2018-18344 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Google Chrome to version 71.0.3578.80 or newer.
Be cautious with installing extensions from untrusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update Chrome and all installed extensions.
Monitor extension permissions and remove unnecessary or suspicious ones.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates provided by Google Chrome to address this vulnerability.