CVE-2021-21218 : Security Advisory and Response
Discover the details of CVE-2021-21218, a vulnerability in Google Chrome allowing remote attackers to access sensitive data via crafted PDF files. Learn how to mitigate and prevent risks.
The vulnerability in PDFium in Google Chrome prior to version 90.0.4430.72 allowed a remote attacker to access sensitive information from process memory through a maliciously crafted PDF file.
Understanding CVE-2021-21218
This section provides insights into the nature and impact of the CVE-2021-21218 vulnerability.
What is CVE-2021-21218?
The CVE-2021-21218 vulnerability involved uninitialized data in PDFium, which exposed a security loophole in Google Chrome versions before 90.0.4430.72. Attackers could exploit this flaw to extract potentially sensitive data from the system's memory by using a specially designed PDF file.
The Impact of CVE-2021-21218
The impact of this vulnerability was significant as it allowed remote attackers to circumvent data security measures, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive information.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-21218
This section delves deeper into the technical aspects of CVE-2021-21218.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability stemmed from uninitialized data in PDFium, impacting Google Chrome versions preceding 90.0.4430.72. This flaw enabled threat actors to retrieve sensitive information from the device's memory by employing a crafted PDF file.
Affected Systems and Versions
Google Chrome versions earlier than 90.0.4430.72 were susceptible to this vulnerability, putting users at risk of memory data exposure.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers could exploit this vulnerability by leveraging a specially crafted PDF file to extract sensitive data from a compromised system's memory.
Mitigation and Prevention
Learn how to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-21218 and prevent potential security breaches.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users are advised to update Google Chrome to version 90.0.4430.72 or later to patch the vulnerability and protect their system from potential exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
In addition to immediate updates, implementing robust security practices such as regular software updates, using reliable security tools, and exercising caution while interacting with external files can enhance overall system security.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security updates released by Chrome and ensure timely installation to address known vulnerabilities and bolster system defenses.