CVE-2010-4041 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
The sandbox implementation in Google Chrome before 7.0.517.41 on Linux does not properly constrain worker processes, which might allow remote attackers to bypass intended access restrictions via unspecified vectors.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/28/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-4041 represents a critical sandbox escape flaw in Google Chrome's security architecture on Linux systems. This issue specifically affects Chrome versions prior to 7.0.517.41 and stems from inadequate implementation of process isolation mechanisms that are fundamental to the browser's security model. The sandboxing technology designed to contain potentially malicious code within worker processes fails to properly enforce access restrictions, creating a pathway for remote attackers to circumvent intended security boundaries.
The technical flaw manifests in the improper handling of worker process constraints within Chrome's Linux implementation. Worker processes are supposed to operate under strict sandbox limitations that prevent them from accessing system resources or executing privileged operations. However, this vulnerability allows attackers to exploit unspecified vectors that bypass these containment measures, effectively granting malicious code elevated privileges beyond what the sandbox architecture intends to permit. The weakness lies in the insufficient validation and enforcement of process boundaries that should isolate worker threads from the main browser process and underlying operating system resources.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to Linux users of affected Chrome versions. Remote attackers can leverage this sandbox escape to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The impact extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it undermines the fundamental security model that Chrome employs to protect users from web-based attacks. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to access sensitive user data, install malware, or perform other malicious activities that would normally be prevented by the sandboxing mechanism.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper privilege management, and relates to ATT&CK technique T1055 for privilege escalation through sandbox escapes. Organizations and individuals should immediately update to Chrome version 7.0.517.41 or later to remediate this issue. Additionally, implementing network-level protections such as web application firewalls and monitoring for suspicious network activity can provide additional defense-in-depth measures. System administrators should also consider deploying automated patch management solutions to ensure timely deployment of security updates across all affected systems. The incident highlights the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date browser software and demonstrates how even subtle implementation flaws in security mechanisms can result in severe consequences for user security and system integrity.