Discover how CVE-2021-21207 impacts Google Chrome versions before 90.0.4430.72. Learn about the vulnerability allowing attackers to perform sandbox escapes via malicious extensions.
Use after free in IndexedDB in Google Chrome prior to 90.0.4430.72 allowed an attacker who convinced a user to install a malicious extension to potentially perform a sandbox escape via a crafted Chrome Extension.
Understanding CVE-2021-21207
This vulnerability, known as CVE-2021-21207, affects Google Chrome versions earlier than 90.0.4430.72. It involves a use after free vulnerability in IndexedDB, potentially leading to sandbox escape.
What is CVE-2021-21207?
The CVE-2021-21207 vulnerability in Google Chrome allowed attackers to exploit a use-after-free bug in IndexedDB, enabling the installation of malicious extensions that could facilitate a sandbox escape.
The Impact of CVE-2021-21207
The impact of CVE-2021-21207 could result in attackers convincing users to install harmful extensions, ultimately leading to a sandbox escape through a specifically crafted Chrome Extension.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-21207
This section details the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in Google Chrome prior to version 90.0.4430.72 involved a use after free issue in IndexedDB, which could allow an attacker to perform a sandbox escape through a malicious extension.
Affected Systems and Versions
Google Chrome versions below 90.0.4430.72 were affected by this vulnerability, exposing users to potential exploitation via crafted extensions.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers could exploit CVE-2021-21207 by convincing users to install a malicious extension, leveraging the use-after-free bug in IndexedDB to escape the browser's sandbox.
Mitigation and Prevention
To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-21207, users and organizations should take immediate steps and adopt long-term security practices along with timely patching and updates.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users are advised to update Google Chrome to version 90.0.4430.72 or later to protect against this vulnerability. Avoid installing extensions from untrusted sources to minimize the risk of exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implement security best practices, such as regularly updating browsers and extensions, exercising caution when installing software, and educating users on safe browsing habits.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security advisories from Google Chrome and other relevant sources. Promptly apply patches and updates to ensure systems are protected against vulnerabilities like CVE-2021-21207.