Learn about CVE-2021-21198, an out-of-bounds read vulnerability in Google Chrome prior to 89.0.4389.114 that could allow a remote attacker to escape the sandbox environment. Find out the impact, affected versions, and mitigation steps.
A detailed overview of CVE-2021-21198, a vulnerability in Google Chrome prior to version 89.0.4389.114 that could allow a remote attacker to escape the sandbox environment.
Understanding CVE-2021-21198
This section delves into the nature of the vulnerability and its potential impact.
What is CVE-2021-21198?
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-21198 is an out-of-bounds read issue in the IPC (Inter-Process Communication) mechanism in Google Chrome. This security flaw in versions preceding 89.0.4389.114 allowed an attacker who had compromised the renderer process to potentially execute a sandbox escape by utilizing a specifically crafted HTML page.
The Impact of CVE-2021-21198
The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it could enable a remote attacker to break out of the browser's sandbox environment, potentially leading to further malicious actions on the affected system.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-21198
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability involves an out-of-bounds read issue in the IPC functionality of Google Chrome, enabling an attacker with control over the renderer process to trigger a sandbox escape via a specially designed HTML page.
Affected Systems and Versions
Google Chrome versions prior to 89.0.4389.114 are impacted by this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
The exploitation of CVE-2021-21198 requires the attacker to have compromised the renderer process, after which they can execute a sandbox escape by utilizing a maliciously crafted HTML page.
Mitigation and Prevention
In this section, you will find details on how to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-21198.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users are strongly advised to update their Google Chrome browser to version 89.0.4389.114 or higher to address this vulnerability. Additionally, exercising caution while browsing and avoiding suspicious websites can help reduce the risk of exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
Enforcing secure coding practices, running regular security audits, and keeping software up to date can help prevent such vulnerabilities in the future.
Patching and Updates
Regularly applying security patches and updates released by Google Chrome is crucial to staying protected against known vulnerabilities like CVE-2021-21198.