CVE-2020-6556 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A heap buffer overflow vulnerability in SwiftShader in Google Chrome before version 84.0.4147.135 could allow a remote attacker to exploit heap corruption through a specially crafted HTML page.

Understanding CVE-2020-6556

This CVE identifies a specific security issue in Google Chrome that could potentially be exploited by attackers.

What is CVE-2020-6556?

CVE-2020-6556 is a heap buffer overflow vulnerability in SwiftShader in Google Chrome versions prior to 84.0.4147.135, enabling a remote attacker to trigger heap corruption via a malicious HTML page.

The Impact of CVE-2020-6556

The vulnerability could lead to remote code execution or denial of service if successfully exploited, posing a significant risk to affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-6556

This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is a heap buffer overflow in SwiftShader in Google Chrome, allowing attackers to potentially corrupt the heap memory through a crafted HTML page.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Chrome
Vendor: Google
Versions Affected: Prior to 84.0.4147.135

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by a remote attacker through a specially crafted HTML page to trigger heap corruption in the affected Chrome versions.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-6556 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Google Chrome to version 84.0.4147.135 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid clicking on suspicious links or visiting untrusted websites to minimize the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement network security measures such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems to enhance overall security.
Educate users on safe browsing practices and the importance of cybersecurity awareness.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security updates and patches released by Google for Chrome to address known vulnerabilities and enhance system security.