CVE-2011-3091 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Use-after-free vulnerability in the IndexedDB implementation in Google Chrome before 19.0.1084.46 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service or possibly have unspecified other impact via unknown vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/24/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-3091 represents a critical use-after-free flaw within Google Chrome's IndexedDB implementation, affecting versions prior to 19.0.1084.46. This type of vulnerability occurs when a program continues to reference memory that has already been freed, creating potential pathways for malicious exploitation. The IndexedDB API, which provides client-side storage capabilities for web applications, became the target of this memory management error that could be leveraged by remote attackers to compromise system integrity. The vulnerability's classification as use-after-free aligns with CWE-416, which specifically addresses the use of freed memory in software implementations. This flaw exists within the browser's core functionality, making it particularly dangerous as it could be exploited through standard web browsing activities without requiring any special privileges or user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website.
The technical execution of this vulnerability involves attackers crafting malicious web content that triggers specific conditions within Chrome's IndexedDB implementation, leading to improper memory deallocation followed by subsequent access to that freed memory location. The unspecified other impacts mentioned in the description suggest potential for more severe consequences beyond simple denial of service, including arbitrary code execution or privilege escalation. Attackers could potentially exploit this vulnerability by constructing web pages that manipulate IndexedDB operations in such a way that memory is freed but still referenced, creating opportunities for code injection or system compromise. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it operates within the browser's trusted execution environment, where successful exploitation could allow attackers to bypass normal security boundaries. This vulnerability demonstrates the inherent complexity of modern web browsers and their extensive API surface areas that can harbor memory management flaws.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-3091 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as the potential for unspecified other impacts suggests this vulnerability could enable more sophisticated attacks. Organizations using affected Chrome versions face significant risk exposure, particularly in environments where users may encounter malicious web content through phishing campaigns, compromised websites, or drive-by downloads. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not need physical access to target systems, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments. Security teams must consider the broader implications of such vulnerabilities, as they often serve as initial access vectors for more comprehensive attacks. The indexed database functionality is commonly used by web applications, making this vulnerability potentially widespread in scope. This type of vulnerability directly impacts the browser's security model and can undermine user trust in web applications that rely on client-side storage mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-3091 primarily focus on immediate software updates to patched Chrome versions, as this vulnerability was addressed through browser updates that corrected the memory management issues in IndexedDB operations. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management processes to ensure all affected systems receive timely updates, particularly given the remote exploitability and potential for arbitrary code execution. Security monitoring should include detection of malicious web content that attempts to exploit this vulnerability, though specific signatures may be difficult to establish given the unspecified nature of potential impacts. Browser hardening measures, such as implementing content security policies and restricting IndexedDB usage where possible, can provide additional defense layers. The vulnerability's resolution through version 19.0.1084.46 demonstrates the importance of maintaining current browser versions and following vendor security advisories. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls or proxy solutions that can detect and block suspicious IndexedDB operations. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical need for regular security assessments and the importance of addressing memory safety issues in complex software systems.