CVE-2011-1806 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Google Chrome before 11.0.696.71 does not properly implement the GPU command buffer, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (memory corruption) via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/07/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-1806 represents a critical security flaw in Google Chrome browsers prior to version 11.0.696.71, specifically within the GPU command buffer implementation. This issue falls under the category of memory corruption vulnerabilities that can be exploited remotely by attackers to gain unauthorized code execution capabilities or cause system instability through denial of service conditions. The GPU command buffer serves as a critical component in Chrome's architecture for processing graphics operations, particularly when handling multimedia content and web applications that utilize hardware acceleration. The improper implementation of this buffer mechanism creates a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate memory structures and potentially execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected browser process.
The technical flaw stems from insufficient validation and handling of GPU commands within Chrome's rendering pipeline, particularly when the browser processes web content that requires GPU acceleration. This vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations that can lead to memory corruption. Attackers can exploit this weakness through various attack vectors including malicious web pages, crafted multimedia content, or compromised websites that trigger the vulnerable GPU command buffer processing. The exploitation typically involves sending specially crafted commands to the GPU that cause memory corruption, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or system crashes. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at a low level within the browser's graphics processing subsystem, making it difficult to detect and mitigate through traditional web application security measures.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-1806 extends beyond simple denial of service conditions, as successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise when attackers leverage the memory corruption to execute malicious code. The vulnerability affects users running Chrome versions earlier than 11.0.696.71, making it a significant concern for organizations and individuals who have not updated their browsers. From an adversarial perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which involves the use of command and scripting interpreters, as attackers can potentially use the compromised browser to execute arbitrary commands on the victim's system. The memory corruption aspect of this vulnerability also relates to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation, as the exploitation could potentially allow attackers to gain elevated system privileges.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-1806 primarily involve immediate browser updates to version 11.0.696.71 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the GPU command buffer implementation issues. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all systems running Chrome are updated promptly, particularly in enterprise environments where multiple browsers may be in use. Additional protective measures include enabling browser security features such as sandboxing, which limits the damage that can occur if a vulnerability is exploited, and implementing network-level controls to monitor for suspicious web traffic patterns. Security administrators should also consider deploying web application firewalls and content filtering solutions that can detect and block malicious content before it reaches user browsers. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of keeping browser software updated and maintaining robust security practices, as GPU-related vulnerabilities represent a growing attack surface that requires continuous monitoring and protection efforts.