CVE-2019-13679 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Google Chrome prior to version 77.0.3865.75 was vulnerable to insufficient policy enforcement in PDFium, allowing a remote attacker to trigger print dialogs through a manipulated PDF file.

Understanding CVE-2019-13679

In this CVE, a lack of adequate policy enforcement in PDFium in Google Chrome versions before 77.0.3865.75 enabled a specific attack vector.

What is CVE-2019-13679?

This CVE describes a vulnerability in Google Chrome that allowed a remote attacker to display print dialogs by exploiting a flaw in PDFium.

The Impact of CVE-2019-13679

The vulnerability could be exploited by a remote attacker to trigger print dialogs through a maliciously crafted PDF file, potentially leading to further attacks or unauthorized actions.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-13679

Google Chrome's vulnerability to insufficient policy enforcement in PDFium is a critical security issue that requires attention.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in Google Chrome versions prior to 77.0.3865.75 allowed attackers to manipulate PDF files to trigger print dialogs, bypassing security measures.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Chrome
Vendor: Google
Versions Affected: < 77.0.3865.75
Version Type: Custom

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability could be exploited remotely by utilizing a specially crafted PDF file to initiate print dialogs, potentially leading to further malicious activities.

Mitigation and Prevention

Taking immediate steps and implementing long-term security practices are crucial to mitigating the risks associated with CVE-2019-13679.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Google Chrome to version 77.0.3865.75 or later to patch the vulnerability.
Avoid opening PDF files from untrusted or unknown sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to the latest versions to address security vulnerabilities.
Implement network security measures to detect and prevent malicious PDF files from being executed.

Patching and Updates

Google has released updates to address this vulnerability. Ensure that all systems running Google Chrome are updated to the latest version to prevent exploitation of this security flaw.