CVE-2021-4057 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This article provides an in-depth look at CVE-2021-4057, a vulnerability found in Google Chrome prior to version 96.0.4664.93 that allowed remote attackers to exploit heap corruption through a crafted HTML page.

Understanding CVE-2021-4057

This section explores the details of the vulnerability, its impact, technical aspects, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2021-4057?

The CVE-2021-4057 vulnerability, known as a 'Use after free' issue, specifically affected Google Chrome versions prior to 96.0.4664.93. It allowed a remote attacker who had compromised the renderer process to potentially exploit heap corruption via a crafted HTML page.

The Impact of CVE-2021-4057

The impact of this vulnerability was significant as it could lead to heap corruption, which attackers could leverage to execute arbitrary code on affected systems, potentially compromising user data and system functionality.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-4057

Let's delve deeper into the technical aspects of CVE-2021-4057 to understand the vulnerability better.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability was caused by a use after free issue in the file API of Google Chrome, which could be exploited by attackers to compromise the renderer process and exploit heap corruption.

Affected Systems and Versions

Google Chrome versions prior to 96.0.4664.93 were affected by CVE-2021-4057. Users of these versions were at risk of exploitation by remote attackers.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers could exploit this vulnerability by tricking users into visiting a malicious website containing a specially crafted HTML page, enabling them to compromise the renderer process and trigger heap corruption.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-4057, users and organizations must take immediate and long-term remediation steps.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update Google Chrome to version 96.0.4664.93 or later to patch the vulnerability. Additionally, they should exercise caution when browsing the internet to avoid visiting suspicious or untrusted websites.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing robust security measures such as regular software updates, maintaining strong security configurations, and educating users about safe browsing habits can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Google released a stable channel update for desktop to address CVE-2021-4057. Users are advised to apply the latest patches and updates provided by Google to protect their systems from potential exploitation.