CVE-2020-6398 : Security Advisory and Response

Google Chrome prior to 80.0.3987.87 is affected by a vulnerability allowing remote attackers to exploit heap corruption via a crafted PDF file.

Understanding CVE-2020-6398

This CVE involves the use of uninitialized data in PDFium in Google Chrome, potentially leading to heap corruption.

What is CVE-2020-6398?

The vulnerability in Google Chrome before version 80.0.3987.87 enables a remote attacker to exploit heap corruption through a specially crafted PDF file.

The Impact of CVE-2020-6398

The exploitation of this vulnerability could result in heap corruption, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-6398

Google Chrome versions prior to 80.0.3987.87 are susceptible to this vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the use of uninitialized data in PDFium, which could be leveraged by attackers to trigger heap corruption.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Chrome
Vendor: Google
Versions Affected: < 80.0.3987.87

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by enticing a user to open a maliciously crafted PDF file, leading to potential heap corruption.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-6398, users and organizations should take immediate and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Google Chrome to version 80.0.3987.87 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid opening PDF files from untrusted or unknown sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to the latest versions.
Implement security best practices to prevent and detect potential threats.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches promptly to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities.