CVE-2017-5088 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Insufficient validation of untrusted input in V8 in Google Chrome prior to 59.0.3071.104 for Mac, Windows, and Linux, and 59.0.3071.117 for Android, allowed a remote attacker to perform out of bounds memory access via a crafted HTML page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/05/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-5088 represents a critical memory safety issue within the V8 JavaScript engine that powers Google Chrome's web browser. This flaw exists in the validation mechanisms that process untrusted input data, specifically affecting versions prior to 59.0.3071.104 for desktop platforms and 59.0.3071.117 for Android devices. The vulnerability classifies under CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions where an attacker can access memory locations beyond the intended buffer boundaries. The V8 engine's insufficient input validation creates a pathway for malicious actors to exploit memory access patterns that should be strictly controlled and validated.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through crafted HTML pages that trigger specific memory access patterns within the V8 JavaScript engine. When Chrome processes these malicious pages, the engine fails to properly validate input parameters that should be checked against buffer limits and memory boundaries. This allows a remote attacker to manipulate memory pointers or access memory regions that should remain protected, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or information disclosure. The flaw specifically enables out-of-bounds memory access, which is a common vector for privilege escalation attacks and can be leveraged to bypass security restrictions that protect the browser's sandboxed environment.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-5088 extends beyond simple browser compromise, as it represents a significant threat to user security and privacy. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to execute malicious code on target systems without requiring local privileges, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users browse untrusted websites. The vulnerability affects multiple platforms including macOS, Windows, Linux, and Android, demonstrating the widespread nature of the flaw. This cross-platform impact means that organizations with diverse device ecosystems face increased risk, as a single malicious webpage could potentially compromise systems across different operating environments. The vulnerability can be exploited through standard web browsing activities, making it difficult for users to protect themselves without updating their browser software.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-5088 primarily focus on immediate software updates and browser patching. Organizations should prioritize updating Chrome to versions 59.0.3071.104 or later for desktop platforms and 59.0.3071.117 or later for Android devices. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which describes the use of JavaScript to execute malicious code, and T1190, which covers exploitation of remote services through web-based attacks. Network security controls should include web application firewalls and content filtering systems that can detect and block malicious HTML content. Additionally, browser hardening measures such as enabling sandboxing features, disabling unnecessary JavaScript functionality, and implementing strict content security policies can provide additional layers of protection. Security teams should monitor for indicators of compromise related to this vulnerability and implement proactive threat hunting activities to identify potential exploitation attempts in their environments.