CVE-2023-5476 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This article provides detailed information about CVE-2023-5476, a vulnerability found in Google Chrome.

Understanding CVE-2023-5476

CVE-2023-5476 is a vulnerability identified in Google Chrome that could allow a remote attacker to exploit heap corruption via a crafted HTML page. The severity of this vulnerability is rated as Medium by Chromium security.

What is CVE-2023-5476?

The CVE-2023-5476 vulnerability, also known as a "Use after free" issue, affects the Blink History component in Google Chrome versions prior to 118.0.5993.70. This flaw could be exploited by a malicious actor to trigger heap corruption, potentially leading to further exploitation.

The Impact of CVE-2023-5476

If exploited, CVE-2023-5476 could lead to a remote attacker executing arbitrary code or causing a denial of service (DoS) condition on the affected system. This could result in unauthorized access, data theft, or system instability.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-5476

This section delves into specific technical details related to CVE-2023-5476.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Google Chrome, CVE-2023-5476, arises from a use-after-free issue in the Blink History component. By enticing a user to visit a malicious website or open a crafted HTML page, an attacker could trigger this flaw, potentially leading to heap corruption.

Affected Systems and Versions

Google Chrome versions earlier than 118.0.5993.70 are impacted by CVE-2023-5476. Users utilizing these vulnerable versions are at risk of exploitation if exposed to malicious content leveraging this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit CVE-2023-5476, a remote attacker can create a specially crafted HTML page that, when accessed by a user using a vulnerable version of Google Chrome, could trigger the use-after-free condition in the Blink History component. Once successful, the attacker could execute arbitrary code or disrupt system stability.

Mitigation and Prevention

Mitigating the risks associated with CVE-2023-5476 involves proactive security measures and prompt actions to address the vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update their Google Chrome browser to version 118.0.5993.70 or later to eliminate the vulnerability and protect their systems from potential exploitation.
Practice caution while browsing the internet, avoid clicking on suspicious links or visiting unknown websites to reduce the risk of exposure to malicious content.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to ensure the latest security patches are applied.
Employ security tools such as antivirus software, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems to enhance overall security posture.

Patching and Updates

Google has released a fix for CVE-2023-5476 in Chrome version 118.0.5993.70. Users are advised to update their browsers immediately to address the vulnerability and fortify their systems against potential attacks.