CVE-2020-6401 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-6401, a vulnerability in Google Chrome allowing domain spoofing via crafted domain names. Find out how to mitigate the risk and prevent phishing attacks.
Google Chrome prior to 80.0.3987.87 is affected by a vulnerability allowing remote attackers to perform domain spoofing via crafted domain names.
Understanding CVE-2020-6401
This CVE involves insufficient validation of untrusted input in the Omnibox feature of Google Chrome.
What is CVE-2020-6401?
Insufficient validation of untrusted input in the Omnibox in Google Chrome before version 80.0.3987.87 enables a remote attacker to conduct domain spoofing using IDN homographs through a manipulated domain name.
The Impact of CVE-2020-6401
This vulnerability allows malicious actors to deceive users by displaying visually similar but different domain names, potentially leading to phishing attacks or other forms of fraud.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-6401
Google Chrome's vulnerability details and affected systems.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw arises from inadequate validation of user input in the Omnibox feature, enabling attackers to create deceptive domain names.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Chrome
- Vendor: Google
- Versions Affected: < 80.0.3987.87
- Version Type: Custom
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting domain names with IDN homographs, tricking users into believing they are visiting legitimate websites.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems and users from the CVE-2020-6401 vulnerability.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Google Chrome to version 80.0.3987.87 or later to mitigate the risk of domain spoofing attacks.
- Be cautious when entering sensitive information on websites to avoid falling victim to phishing attempts.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Educate users on how to identify phishing attempts and the importance of verifying website URLs before entering personal data.
- Implement security awareness training to enhance user vigilance against social engineering attacks.
Patching and Updates
Regularly update Google Chrome to the latest version to ensure that security patches are applied promptly.