CVE-2017-15428 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Insufficient data validation in V8 builtins string generator could lead to out of bounds read and write access in V8 in Google Chrome prior to 62.0.3202.94 and allowed a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code inside a sandbox via a crafted HTML page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/26/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-15428 represents a critical security flaw within the V8 JavaScript engine used in Google Chrome browsers. This issue stems from inadequate data validation mechanisms within V8 builtins string generator functionality, creating a pathway for remote code execution attacks. The vulnerability affects Chrome versions prior to 62.0.3202.94, making it particularly concerning given the widespread use of these older browser versions in enterprise and consumer environments. The flaw operates at the core level of JavaScript processing, where string manipulation operations fail to properly validate input data, leading to memory access violations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a specific flaw in how V8 handles string generation operations within its built-in functions. When processing crafted HTML content containing maliciously constructed string data, the V8 engine fails to validate array bounds during string manipulation processes. This insufficient validation allows attackers to manipulate memory addresses through carefully crafted inputs that bypass normal safety checks. The vulnerability manifests as out-of-bounds read and write operations, which can be exploited to corrupt memory regions and ultimately execute arbitrary code within the browser's sandboxed environment. This particular weakness maps directly to CWE-129, which describes improper validation of array indices, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple browser exploitation, as it provides attackers with a sophisticated means of bypassing Chrome's security model. The sandbox isolation that typically protects users from malicious code execution becomes ineffective when this vulnerability is leveraged. Attackers can craft HTML pages containing malicious JavaScript that triggers the vulnerable string generation path, enabling them to execute code with the privileges of the browser process. This capability allows for various attack vectors including credential theft, data exfiltration, and system compromise. The vulnerability's remote nature means that simply visiting a malicious website can result in successful exploitation without any user interaction beyond normal browsing behavior.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers JavaScript/Visual BasicScript execution, and T1071.004, covering application layer protocols. The attack chain typically involves initial compromise through drive-by downloads or malicious websites, followed by exploitation of the V8 engine vulnerability to gain elevated privileges within the browser sandbox. Organizations should implement immediate patch management protocols to update Chrome to version 62.0.3202.94 or later, as this represents the definitive fix for the vulnerability. Additionally, network security controls such as web application firewalls and content filtering solutions can provide additional layers of protection by blocking known malicious content patterns. Browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary JavaScript features and implementing strict content security policies can further reduce the attack surface and mitigate potential exploitation attempts.