CVE-2020-6471 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Insufficient policy enforcement in developer tools in Google Chrome prior to 83.0.4103.61 allowed an attacker to potentially perform a sandbox escape via a crafted Chrome Extension.

Understanding CVE-2020-6471

This CVE relates to a security vulnerability in Google Chrome that could enable a sandbox escape through a malicious extension installation.

What is CVE-2020-6471?

CVE-2020-6471 is a vulnerability in Google Chrome that arises from insufficient policy enforcement in its developer tools, potentially leading to a sandbox escape.

The Impact of CVE-2020-6471

The vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker who convinces a user to install a malicious extension, allowing them to escape the browser's sandbox environment.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-6471

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from insufficient policy enforcement in Google Chrome's developer tools, enabling a sandbox escape via a crafted Chrome Extension.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Chrome
Vendor: Google
Versions Affected: < 83.0.4103.61

Exploitation Mechanism

The attacker needs to persuade a user to install a malicious extension to exploit the vulnerability and perform a sandbox escape.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protective measures to address the CVE.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Google Chrome to version 83.0.4103.61 or newer.
Avoid installing extensions from untrusted sources.
Be cautious when granting permissions to browser extensions.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update Chrome and all installed extensions.
Educate users on safe browsing practices and extension installation.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates for Google Chrome to mitigate the risk of exploitation.