CVE-2020-6438 : Security Advisory and Response

Insufficient policy enforcement in extensions in Google Chrome prior to 81.0.4044.92 allowed an attacker to obtain sensitive information from process memory via a crafted Chrome Extension.

Understanding CVE-2020-6438

This CVE relates to a security vulnerability in Google Chrome that could be exploited by malicious actors to access sensitive data.

What is CVE-2020-6438?

CVE-2020-6438 is a vulnerability in Google Chrome that arises from insufficient policy enforcement in extensions, enabling attackers to extract potentially sensitive information from process memory through a malicious Chrome Extension.

The Impact of CVE-2020-6438

The vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data stored in process memory, posing a risk to user privacy and security.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-6438

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from a lack of proper policy enforcement in Chrome extensions, allowing attackers to exploit the extension installation process to access sensitive information.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Chrome
Vendor: Google
Versions Affected: Prior to 81.0.4044.92

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers convince users to install a malicious extension
Crafted Chrome Extension extracts sensitive data from process memory

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-6438 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Google Chrome to version 81.0.4044.92 or newer
Avoid installing extensions from untrusted sources
Regularly monitor for suspicious extension behavior

Long-Term Security Practices

Educate users on safe browsing habits and extension installation
Implement strict extension review processes

Patching and Updates

Regularly update Google Chrome to the latest version
Apply security patches promptly to address known vulnerabilities