CVE-2015-6764 in Xcode
Summary
by MITRE
The BasicJsonStringifier::SerializeJSArray function in json-stringifier.h in the JSON stringifier in Google V8, as used in Google Chrome before 47.0.2526.73, improperly loads array elements, which allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (out-of-bounds memory access) or possibly have unspecified other impact via crafted JavaScript code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/28/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-6764 resides within the BasicJsonStringifier::SerializeJSArray function in Google V8's JSON stringifier component, which is integral to the JavaScript engine powering Google Chrome and other applications. This flaw manifests in the improper loading of array elements during JSON serialization processes, creating a critical security risk that affects Chrome versions prior to 47.0.2526.73. The vulnerability operates at the intersection of memory management and JavaScript execution, where the JSON stringifier fails to properly validate array boundaries when processing JavaScript objects, leading to potential memory corruption issues.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient bounds checking within the SerializeJSArray function, which is responsible for converting JavaScript arrays into JSON string representations. When malicious JavaScript code constructs arrays with irregular or malformed structures, the function fails to properly validate element access patterns, resulting in out-of-bounds memory reads or writes. This memory access violation can occur during normal JSON serialization operations, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through standard web page interactions without requiring special privileges or user consent. The flaw aligns with CWE-129, which addresses insufficient bounds checking, and represents a classic example of an out-of-bounds read vulnerability that can lead to unpredictable behavior.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-6764 extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to potentially enable more sophisticated attacks. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to cause browser crashes through out-of-bounds memory access, effectively creating a denial of service condition that disrupts user experience and web application functionality. However, the vulnerability's potential extends beyond simple disruption, as the memory corruption patterns associated with out-of-bounds access can sometimes be exploited to execute arbitrary code or escalate privileges, though such exploitation requires additional attack vectors. The vulnerability affects the core JavaScript engine functionality, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through any JavaScript code that performs JSON serialization operations, including legitimate web applications that may inadvertently create vulnerable array structures.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-6764 focus primarily on updating affected systems to versions that contain the patched V8 JavaScript engine. Google released Chrome version 47.0.2526.73 and subsequent updates that address this vulnerability by implementing proper bounds checking in the SerializeJSArray function. Organizations should prioritize immediate patch deployment across all affected systems, as the vulnerability can be exploited remotely through malicious web content. Additionally, implementing content security policies and restricting JavaScript execution in sensitive contexts can provide additional defense-in-depth measures. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper memory management in JavaScript engines and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for JavaScript, highlighting the need for robust input validation and bounds checking in interpreted languages. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual memory access patterns and browser crash reports that may indicate exploitation attempts.