CVE-2021-37991 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability known as Race in V8 in Google Chrome prior to version 95.0.4638.54 could allow a remote attacker to potentially exploit heap corruption via a crafted HTML page.

Understanding CVE-2021-37991

This section will dive into the details of the CVE-2021-37991 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-37991?

The CVE-2021-37991 vulnerability, also referred to as Race in V8, exists in Google Chrome versions before 95.0.4638.54. It enables a remote attacker to potentially trigger heap corruption by utilizing a specially crafted HTML page.

The Impact of CVE-2021-37991

If exploited, this vulnerability could have dangerous consequences as it allows attackers to corrupt the memory heap. This could potentially lead to remote code execution or system crashes, posing a significant risk to affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-37991

In this section, we will explore the technical aspects of CVE-2021-37991 in more detail.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from a race condition in the V8 engine used by Google Chrome, allowing attackers to manipulate memory structures through a malicious HTML page.

Affected Systems and Versions

Google Chrome versions prior to 95.0.4638.54 are affected by this vulnerability. Users of these versions are at risk of exploitation if exposed to crafted HTML pages.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by enticing users to visit a malicious website or click on a link that contains the crafted HTML page. Once executed, the attacker can potentially corrupt the heap memory.

Mitigation and Prevention

To protect systems from the CVE-2021-37991 vulnerability, immediate action and long-term security measures are crucial.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users and organizations should update their Google Chrome browser to version 95.0.4638.54 or later to mitigate the risk of exploitation. Additionally, exercising caution while browsing and avoiding suspicious links can help prevent attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Maintaining up-to-date software, employing robust cybersecurity measures, and promoting security awareness among users are essential for long-term protection against such vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitoring for security updates from trusted sources like Google and promptly applying patches is vital in safeguarding systems from known vulnerabilities.