CVE-2015-1219 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in the SkMallocPixelRef::NewAllocate function in core/SkMallocPixelRef.cpp in Skia, as used in Google Chrome before 41.0.2272.76, allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service or possibly have unspecified other impact via vectors that trigger an attempted allocation of a large amount of memory during WebGL rendering.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/12/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-1219 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within the Skia graphics library component that powers Google Chrome's rendering capabilities. This issue specifically affects the SkMallocPixelRef::NewAllocate function located in core/SkMallocPixelRef.cpp, where improper handling of integer values during memory allocation processes creates opportunities for exploitation. The vulnerability exists in Chrome versions prior to 41.0.2272.76, making it a significant concern for users running outdated browser versions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking when processing memory allocation requests during WebGL rendering operations. When malicious web content attempts to trigger an allocation of excessive memory through crafted WebGL commands, the integer overflow occurs during the calculation of memory requirements. This flaw allows attackers to manipulate the allocation process by providing values that, when processed through the affected function, result in integer wraparound behavior. The resulting memory allocation request becomes either extremely large or negative, causing the system to either fail during allocation or potentially execute unintended memory operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as the flaw could potentially enable more severe consequences including arbitrary code execution or system instability. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability by hosting malicious web content that specifically targets WebGL rendering contexts, causing the browser to attempt allocations that trigger the integer overflow condition. The nature of the flaw means that successful exploitation could lead to browser crashes, memory corruption, or potentially allow attackers to execute code within the browser's memory space. This represents a classic example of how graphics rendering libraries can become attack vectors when proper input validation is absent.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow conditions, and demonstrates how such flaws can propagate through complex software stacks to create remote exploitation opportunities. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving code injection and privilege escalation through browser-based attacks. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that WebGL rendering is commonly used in modern web applications, making the exploitation vector highly accessible to threat actors. Security practitioners should note that this vulnerability emphasizes the importance of proper integer handling and bounds checking in graphics processing libraries, as these components often operate in memory-constrained environments where overflow conditions can have severe consequences.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching of Chrome browser installations to versions 41.0.2272.76 or later, where the integer overflow has been addressed through proper bounds checking. Organizations should also implement network-level controls to restrict access to potentially malicious WebGL content and consider browser hardening measures such as disabling WebGL when not required for business operations. Additionally, regular security assessments of web applications that utilize WebGL should be conducted to identify and remediate similar integer overflow conditions that may exist in custom graphics libraries or third-party components. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical need for comprehensive input validation and integer overflow protection in graphics rendering systems.