CVE-2018-6138 : Security Advisory and Response

Google Chrome before version 67.0.3396.62 had a vulnerability in the Extensions API that allowed attackers to bypass navigation restrictions by tricking users into installing a malicious extension.

Understanding CVE-2018-6138

Before version 67.0.3396.62, a lack of policy enforcement in Google Chrome's Extensions API enabled attackers to exploit users through malicious extensions.

What is CVE-2018-6138?

This CVE refers to the insufficient policy enforcement in the Extensions API of Google Chrome, allowing attackers to bypass navigation restrictions by deceiving users into installing a crafted malicious extension.

The Impact of CVE-2018-6138

The vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access, data theft, and potential compromise of user systems through malicious extensions.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-6138

Google Chrome's vulnerability in the Extensions API had the following technical details:

Vulnerability Description

Insufficient policy enforcement in the Extensions API

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Chrome
Vendor: Google
Versions Affected: < 67.0.3396.62

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploited the vulnerability by tricking users into installing a malicious extension, bypassing navigation restrictions.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2018-6138, consider the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Google Chrome to version 67.0.3396.62 or higher
Avoid installing extensions from untrusted sources

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and remove unnecessary extensions
Educate users on safe extension installation practices

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches promptly to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities.