CVE-2017-5125 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Heap buffer overflow in Skia in Google Chrome prior to 62.0.3202.62 allowed a remote attacker to potentially exploit heap corruption via a crafted HTML page.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/06/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-5125 represents a critical heap buffer overflow within the Skia graphics library component of Google Chrome browsers. This flaw exists in versions prior to 62.0.3202.62 and enables remote code execution through maliciously crafted HTML pages. The Skia graphics library serves as a core component responsible for rendering graphics operations within Chrome, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through standard web browsing activities. The heap buffer overflow occurs when the library processes malformed graphics data, leading to memory corruption that adversaries can potentially exploit to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 heap-based buffer overflow category, which specifically addresses buffer overflows occurring in heap memory regions where attackers can manipulate memory layout to achieve code execution. The exploitability of this vulnerability is heightened by its remote nature, allowing attackers to deliver malicious payloads through web-based attacks without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a compromised website. The operational impact extends beyond individual user systems as this vulnerability affects millions of Chrome users globally, particularly those running outdated browser versions. The attack surface is broad since Skia is used extensively for rendering web content, making it a prime target for cybercriminals seeking to leverage browser-based attacks. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript) and T1203 (Exploitation for Client Execution) techniques, as attackers can leverage JavaScript to trigger the vulnerable Skia component. The memory corruption resulting from this heap overflow can lead to unpredictable behavior including application crashes, data corruption, or complete system compromise. Browser vendors and security researchers have classified this as a high-severity vulnerability requiring immediate patching due to its potential for remote code execution. The remediation strategy involves updating Chrome browsers to version 62.0.3202.62 or later, which includes patches addressing the heap buffer overflow in the Skia library. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all Chrome installations are updated promptly. Additionally, network security controls such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of keeping browser software updated, as outdated versions remain susceptible to known exploits. Security professionals should monitor for indicators of compromise related to this vulnerability and implement appropriate defensive measures including network segmentation and user education about avoiding suspicious web content. This vulnerability also highlights the broader challenge of securing complex software ecosystems where multiple components interact, emphasizing the need for robust memory safety practices in graphics rendering libraries. The attack pattern typically involves crafting HTML pages with malicious graphics elements that trigger the vulnerable code path in Skia, making it essential for organizations to maintain up-to-date threat intelligence and security monitoring capabilities to detect and respond to such attacks effectively.