CVE-2010-1664 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Google Chrome before 4.1.249.1064 does not properly handle HTML5 media, which allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (memory corruption) and possibly have unspecified other impact via unknown vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/08/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-1664 represents a critical memory corruption issue within Google Chrome's handling of HTML5 media elements. This flaw existed in Chrome versions prior to 4.1.249.1064 and demonstrates how multimedia processing can become a vector for severe system compromise. The vulnerability specifically affects the browser's HTML5 media processing capabilities, which are fundamental components for modern web browsing experiences including video playback and audio handling. The issue arises from inadequate validation and memory management when processing multimedia content within web pages.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper memory handling during HTML5 media element processing, creating conditions where maliciously crafted web content can trigger memory corruption. This type of flaw typically occurs when the browser fails to properly validate input data or allocate memory resources when processing multimedia elements. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to exploit this weakness through web pages containing specially crafted HTML5 media content, potentially leading to system instability and denial of service conditions. The unspecified other impacts suggest this could potentially enable more sophisticated attacks beyond simple denial of service.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to users who browse the internet regularly, as it can be exploited through routine web browsing activities. The attack vector requires no special privileges and can be executed through standard web page loading processes, making it particularly dangerous for widespread exploitation. Organizations relying on Chrome as their primary browser face potential system crashes, application instability, and possible data loss. The memory corruption aspect indicates that successful exploitation could lead to system crashes or even allow for more advanced attack techniques such as code execution, though the exact scope remains unspecified.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and relates to improper handling of memory operations during multimedia processing. This flaw also connects to ATT&CK technique T1203, which covers legitimate programs that can be used to gain access to systems through memory corruption vulnerabilities. Security professionals should prioritize patching affected Chrome versions and implementing monitoring for unusual memory usage patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider browser hardening measures and network-based protections to mitigate potential exploitation. The incident highlights the importance of regular security updates and proper input validation in multimedia processing components of web browsers.