CVE-2021-4066 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Integer underflow in ANGLE in Google Chrome prior to version 96.0.4664.93 allowed a remote attacker to potentially exploit heap corruption via a crafted HTML page.

Understanding CVE-2021-4066

This section delves into the details of the CVE-2021-4066 vulnerability found in Google Chrome.

What is CVE-2021-4066?

CVE-2021-4066 is an integer underflow vulnerability in ANGLE in Google Chrome versions before 96.0.4664.93. This flaw could be exploited by a remote attacker through a specially crafted HTML page.

The Impact of CVE-2021-4066

The impact of this vulnerability could lead to heap corruption, providing an opportunity for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code or crash the application, potentially compromising user data and system integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-4066

In this section, we explore the technical aspects of the CVE-2021-4066 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from an integer underflow issue in ANGLE component, a graphics engine abstraction layer used in Google Chrome, which could be triggered via a malicious HTML page.

Affected Systems and Versions

Google Chrome versions earlier than 96.0.4664.93 are affected by this vulnerability, making them susceptible to exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting the integer underflow in ANGLE, a remote attacker could manipulate memory allocation in a way that leads to heap corruption, creating a security risk for users.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section focuses on the steps to mitigate and prevent exploitation of CVE-2021-4066.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update their Google Chrome browser to version 96.0.4664.93 or later to protect against this vulnerability. It is also recommended to avoid clicking on suspicious links or visiting untrusted websites to minimize the risk.

Long-Term Security Practices

To enhance overall security posture, practicing good browsing habits, staying informed about security updates, and using additional security tools like antivirus software can help prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Regularly checking for and applying security patches, especially for critical software components like web browsers, is essential to address known vulnerabilities and maintain a secure computing environment.