CVE-2015-1234 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Race condition in gpu/command_buffer/service/gles2_cmd_decoder.cc in Google Chrome before 41.0.2272.118 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (buffer overflow) or possibly have unspecified other impact by manipulating OpenGL ES commands.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/02/2022
The vulnerability described in CVE-2015-1234 represents a critical race condition flaw within Google Chrome's graphics processing subsystem, specifically in the gpu/command_buffer/service/gles2_cmd_decoder.cc component. This issue affects Chrome versions prior to 41.0.2272.118 and demonstrates how improper handling of OpenGL ES commands can create significant security risks. The race condition occurs during the processing of graphics commands, where concurrent access to shared resources without proper synchronization mechanisms leads to unpredictable behavior. Such vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous in browser environments where untrusted content can be executed in the context of the user's system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate thread synchronization when processing OpenGL ES commands through the graphics command decoder. When multiple threads attempt to access or modify shared command buffers simultaneously, the race condition allows for memory corruption that can manifest as buffer overflows. This particular flaw operates at the intersection of graphics processing and memory management, where the command decoder fails to properly validate or synchronize access to graphics command structures. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-362, which specifically addresses race conditions in software implementations, making it a prime example of how concurrent programming errors can lead to serious security implications.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability enables remote attackers to execute denial of service attacks against Chrome users by triggering buffer overflows through carefully crafted OpenGL ES commands. The impact extends beyond simple service disruption, as the unspecified other impacts mentioned in the description suggest potential for more severe consequences including arbitrary code execution or privilege escalation. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by hosting malicious content on web servers that, when rendered in Chrome, will trigger the race condition and cause the browser to crash or behave unpredictably. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in phishing campaigns or malicious website attacks where users might be tricked into visiting compromised sites.
The exploitation of CVE-2015-1234 aligns with several tactics outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to privilege escalation and denial of service. The vulnerability demonstrates how graphics processing components in browsers can serve as attack vectors for system-level compromise. Organizations should implement immediate patch management protocols to address this vulnerability, as Chrome's graphics subsystem is integral to modern web browsing experiences. The remediation strategy involves updating to Chrome version 41.0.2272.118 or later, which includes proper synchronization mechanisms and command validation. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing browser hardening measures, including sandboxing and restricted graphics command execution, to minimize the potential impact of similar vulnerabilities in the future. Security teams should also monitor for related vulnerabilities in graphics libraries and browser components that might present similar race condition risks.