CVE-2020-6466 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A use after free vulnerability in Google Chrome prior to 83.0.4103.61 could allow a remote attacker to escape the sandbox.

Understanding CVE-2020-6466

This CVE involves a critical security issue in Google Chrome that could lead to a sandbox escape.

What is CVE-2020-6466?

This CVE refers to a use after free vulnerability in the media component of Google Chrome before version 83.0.4103.61. An attacker who has compromised the renderer process could potentially exploit this flaw to escape the sandbox by using a specially crafted HTML page.

The Impact of CVE-2020-6466

The vulnerability could be exploited by a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code or perform other malicious activities on the affected system. Successful exploitation could result in a complete compromise of the targeted system.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-6466

This section provides more in-depth technical details about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is classified as a use after free issue, which occurs when a program continues to use memory after it has been freed, potentially leading to a security risk.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Google Chrome
Vendor: Google
Versions Affected: Prior to 83.0.4103.61

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by a remote attacker who has compromised the renderer process, using a specifically crafted HTML page to trigger the use after free condition and potentially escape the sandbox.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-6466 requires immediate action and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Google Chrome to version 83.0.4103.61 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid visiting untrusted websites or clicking on suspicious links to reduce the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement security best practices such as using firewalls and antivirus software to enhance overall system security.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all systems running Google Chrome are regularly updated with the latest security patches and updates to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.