CVE-2019-5840 : What You Need to Know

Google Chrome on iOS prior to version 75.0.3770.80 had a vulnerability in its popup blocker's security user interface, allowing remote attackers to bypass navigation restrictions.

Understanding CVE-2019-5840

This CVE entry describes a security issue in Google Chrome on iOS that could be exploited by attackers to circumvent navigation restrictions.

What is CVE-2019-5840?

The vulnerability in Google Chrome on iOS, before version 75.0.3770.80, pertains to a flaw in the security user interface of the popup blocker. This flaw enables a remote attacker to bypass navigation restrictions using a specially crafted HTML page.

The Impact of CVE-2019-5840

The vulnerability could be exploited by malicious actors to trick users into visiting potentially harmful websites, leading to further exploitation or data theft.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-5840

Google Chrome on iOS was susceptible to a security issue in its popup blocker's security user interface.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allowed remote attackers to bypass navigation restrictions by utilizing a specifically designed HTML page.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Chrome
Vendor: Google
Versions Affected: < 75.0.3770.80

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers could exploit this vulnerability by tricking users into clicking on a malicious link that would lead them to a crafted HTML page, bypassing the browser's navigation restrictions.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2019-5840, users and organizations should take immediate and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Google Chrome on iOS to version 75.0.3770.80 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid clicking on suspicious links or visiting untrusted websites.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to the latest versions.
Educate users about safe browsing practices and the importance of avoiding potentially harmful websites.

Patching and Updates

Google released a stable channel update for desktop to address this vulnerability. Ensure that all devices running Google Chrome are updated to the latest version to prevent exploitation.