CVE-2014-3193 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
The SessionService::GetLastSession function in browser/sessions/session_service.cc in Google Chrome before 38.0.2125.101 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (use-after-free) or possibly have unspecified other impact via vectors that leverage "type confusion" for callback processing.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/21/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-3193 represents a critical use-after-free flaw in Google Chrome's session management system that could enable remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause system instability. This vulnerability exists within the SessionService::GetLastSession function located in browser/sessions/session_service.cc, which is part of Chrome's core browser architecture responsible for managing user session data and browser state persistence. The flaw stems from improper handling of callback processing mechanisms that creates conditions where memory allocated to session objects can be accessed after it has been freed, creating a dangerous state that adversaries can exploit.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on type confusion during callback execution, a sophisticated attack vector that falls under CWE-468, which specifically addresses improper pointer type handling and type confusion issues. When Chrome processes session-related callbacks, the system fails to properly validate or maintain type integrity between different object representations, allowing attackers to manipulate memory structures through carefully crafted inputs. This type confusion creates opportunities for attackers to control the execution flow of the browser process, potentially leading to code execution in the context of the browser's user privileges. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple denial of service, as it can potentially enable remote code execution through the use-after-free condition that occurs when freed memory is accessed and overwritten by malicious data.
The operational implications of CVE-2014-3193 are severe for organizations and individual users who rely on Google Chrome as their primary web browser. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability through various attack vectors including malicious websites, compromised web pages, or phishing campaigns that direct users to exploit the vulnerable code path. The use-after-free condition creates a window where attackers can manipulate memory contents to redirect execution flow, potentially leading to full system compromise if successful. This vulnerability specifically targets Chrome's session management subsystem, which is critical for maintaining browser state across user sessions and application restarts, making it an attractive target for attackers seeking persistent access to user systems.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including mandatory browser updates to Chrome version 38.0.2125.101 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the type confusion and use-after-free conditions. Network security controls such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring for suspicious web traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Security teams should also consider implementing browser hardening measures including sandboxing configurations and restricted permissions for browser processes to limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification under the ATT&CK framework as a remote code execution vector (T1203) emphasizes the need for comprehensive defensive strategies that address both endpoint protection and network monitoring capabilities. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify any potential exposure to similar memory corruption vulnerabilities that may exist in other browser components or third-party applications that utilize similar session management patterns.