CVE-2020-15991 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in Google Chrome prior to version 86.0.4240.75 allowed a remote attacker to potentially escape the sandbox via a crafted HTML page.

Understanding CVE-2020-15991

This CVE involves a use-after-free vulnerability in the password manager of Google Chrome.

What is CVE-2020-15991?

This CVE refers to a specific security vulnerability in Google Chrome that could be exploited by a remote attacker to escape the browser's sandbox.

The Impact of CVE-2020-15991

The vulnerability allowed an attacker who compromised the renderer process to potentially perform a sandbox escape through a malicious HTML page.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-15991

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability was a use-after-free issue in the password manager component of Google Chrome.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Chrome
Vendor: Google
Versions Affected: Prior to 86.0.4240.75

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability could be exploited by a remote attacker who had compromised the renderer process through a specially crafted HTML page.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-15991 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Google Chrome to version 86.0.4240.75 or newer.
Avoid clicking on suspicious links or visiting untrusted websites.
Implement security best practices for web browsing.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to patch known vulnerabilities.
Use security tools like antivirus and firewalls to enhance protection.
Educate users on safe browsing habits and cybersecurity awareness.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all systems running Google Chrome are updated to version 86.0.4240.75 or above to mitigate the vulnerability.