CVE-2017-5043 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Chrome Apps in Google Chrome prior to 57.0.2987.98 for Linux, Windows, and Mac had a use after free bug in GuestView, which allowed a remote attacker to perform an out of bounds memory read via a crafted Chrome extension.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/02/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-5043 represents a critical use after free flaw within Google Chrome's GuestView implementation across multiple operating systems. This issue affected Chrome versions prior to 57.0.2987.98 on Linux, Windows, and Mac platforms, creating a significant security risk that could be exploited remotely. The vulnerability resides in the Chrome Apps framework where GuestView components handle communication between different application contexts, making it a prime target for sophisticated attack vectors.
The technical nature of this flaw stems from improper memory management within the GuestView component, specifically manifesting as a use after free condition that occurs when memory allocated to GuestView objects is freed but subsequently accessed by malicious code. This memory corruption vulnerability enables attackers to manipulate the application's memory state through a crafted Chrome extension, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or information disclosure. The issue is classified as a CWE-416 use after free vulnerability, which directly impacts the memory safety mechanisms that Chrome employs to protect against such exploits.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-5043 extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it provides attackers with a pathway to execute arbitrary code within the Chrome sandbox environment. Remote attackers could leverage this vulnerability through malicious Chrome extensions, bypassing typical security boundaries that separate different application contexts. The attack surface is particularly concerning given Chrome's widespread usage and the fact that the vulnerability could be triggered through legitimate extension installation processes. This flaw aligns with ATT&CK technique T1106 for remote code execution and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter usage, as attackers could potentially establish persistent access through the compromised browser environment.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires a sophisticated attack chain involving the creation of a malicious Chrome extension that can trigger the use after free condition within GuestView. Attackers would need to carefully craft memory operations that cause the GuestView object to be freed while still being referenced, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged for privilege escalation. The vulnerability demonstrates the complexity of modern browser security models where sandboxing mechanisms can be bypassed through carefully crafted memory corruption attacks. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including mandatory Chrome updates to version 57.0.2987.98 or later, along with enhanced monitoring for suspicious extension installations and memory access patterns. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security audits and the need for robust memory safety practices in browser applications, as identified in industry standards for secure software development practices.