CVE-2021-21208 : Security Advisory and Response

Insufficient data validation in the QR scanner of Google Chrome on iOS versions prior to 90.0.4430.72 could allow an attacker to perform domain spoofing via a crafted QR code.

Understanding CVE-2021-21208

This CVE involves a security issue in Google Chrome affecting iOS versions before 90.0.4430.72, enabling potential domain spoofing through specially crafted QR codes.

What is CVE-2021-21208?

The vulnerability in the QR scanner of Google Chrome on iOS devices before version 90.0.4430.72 could be exploited by an attacker to deceive users with a malicious QR code, leading to domain spoofing.

The Impact of CVE-2021-21208

With this vulnerability, threat actors can abuse a flaw in the QR scanner to trick users into interacting with a QR code that appears legitimate but redirects them to a spoofed website, facilitating phishing attacks.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-21208

This section outlines the specific technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw arises from inadequate data validation in the QR scanner feature of Google Chrome on iOS, making it possible for an attacker to manipulate QR codes to mislead users into visiting spoofed domains.

Affected Systems and Versions

Google Chrome versions on iOS devices prior to 90.0.4430.72 are impacted by this vulnerability, potentially exposing users to deceitful QR codes and subsequent domain spoofing attacks.

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging the insufficient data validation in the QR scanner, threat actors can design QR codes that, when scanned by vulnerable versions of Google Chrome on iOS, redirect users to malicious websites, posing significant security risks.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard against CVE-2021-21208, immediate actions and long-term security practices are crucial.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update their Google Chrome browser on iOS devices to version 90.0.4430.72 or newer to mitigate the risk of falling victim to domain spoofing via malicious QR codes.

Long-Term Security Practices

In addition to applying updates promptly, maintaining awareness of phishing tactics and exercising caution when scanning QR codes can enhance overall security posture and prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitoring for and installing browser updates, especially security patches released by Google for Chrome on iOS, is essential to address known vulnerabilities and protect against evolving threats.