CVE-2016-5215 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
A use after free in webaudio in Google Chrome prior to 55.0.2883.75 for Mac, Windows and Linux, and 55.0.2883.84 for Android allowed a remote attacker to perform an out of bounds memory read via a crafted HTML page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/14/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-5215 represents a critical use after free condition within the webaudio component of Google Chrome browsers across multiple platforms. This flaw existed in versions prior to 55.0.2883.75 for Mac, Windows, and Linux systems, and prior to 55.0.2883.84 for Android devices. The issue stems from improper memory management within the browser's audio processing subsystem, specifically when handling Web Audio API operations. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious HTML pages that would trigger the use after free condition during audio processing operations.
The technical execution of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of audio buffer objects within the Web Audio API implementation. When a malicious webpage attempts to access memory that has already been freed during audio processing operations, the browser's memory management system fails to properly validate the access. This creates a scenario where an attacker can potentially read data from memory locations that should no longer be accessible, leading to information disclosure or potential code execution. The vulnerability manifests as an out of bounds memory read operation, which is classified under CWE-416 as a use after free condition. This particular weakness allows attackers to access memory that has already been deallocated, creating opportunities for data leakage or system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-5215 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to perform remote code execution under certain conditions. The vulnerability affects all major operating systems where Chrome is deployed, making it particularly dangerous due to its broad attack surface. Remote attackers could leverage this flaw through web-based attacks without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website. The attack vector operates entirely through standard web protocols, making it difficult to detect and prevent using traditional network security measures. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as it enables attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code through browser-based attacks. The exploitability of this vulnerability is enhanced by the fact that it requires no privileged access or user interaction, making it particularly dangerous for widespread exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-5215 primarily focus on immediate browser updates to patched versions that address the memory management issues within the Web Audio API implementation. Organizations should prioritize updating all Chrome installations to versions 55.0.2883.75 or later for desktop platforms and 55.0.2883.84 or later for Android systems. Additionally, implementing browser security policies that restrict audio processing capabilities or disable unnecessary audio APIs can provide additional defense layers. Network administrators should consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious HTML content attempting to exploit audio API vulnerabilities. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security patch management and the need for organizations to maintain up-to-date browser installations. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual audio processing patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, as this vulnerability could be used in conjunction with other attack vectors to establish persistent access to compromised systems.