CVE-2019-5761 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Incorrect object lifecycle management in SwiftShader in Google Chrome prior to 72.0.3626.81 allowed a remote attacker to potentially exploit heap corruption via a crafted HTML page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/11/2023
CVE-2019-5761 represents a critical heap corruption vulnerability within SwiftShader, the software-based graphics rendering component integrated into Google Chrome browsers. This vulnerability stems from improper object lifecycle management that creates exploitable conditions in memory allocation patterns. The flaw exists specifically in the software rasterizer implementation that handles graphics processing when hardware acceleration is disabled or unavailable. Attackers can craft malicious HTML pages that trigger the vulnerable code path, leading to memory corruption that may result in arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the graphics rendering layer, where memory management errors can be exploited to gain full system control.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper handling of object references and memory deallocation within SwiftShader's graphics processing pipeline. When Chrome processes HTML content that includes specific graphics operations, the software renderer fails to properly manage object lifecycles, creating dangling pointers or use-after-free conditions. This mismanagement occurs during the processing of certain WebGL or HTML5 canvas operations where objects are allocated and subsequently freed while still being referenced. The vulnerability maps directly to CWE-415, which addresses double free errors, and CWE-416, covering use after free conditions, both of which are fundamental memory safety issues that enable remote code execution. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation can lead to arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-5761 extends beyond simple browser compromise, as it represents a sophisticated attack vector that can be weaponized through social engineering campaigns or drive-by downloads. Remote attackers can craft malicious web pages that exploit this vulnerability without requiring user interaction beyond visiting the compromised site, making it particularly dangerous for enterprise environments where users may encounter such content unexpectedly. The vulnerability affects all versions of Chrome prior to 72.0.3626.81, including mobile versions, creating a wide attack surface across different platforms and device types. Security researchers have noted that the exploitability of this vulnerability is enhanced when combined with other browser-based attacks, as the heap corruption can be leveraged to bypass modern security mitigations such as address space layout randomization and data execution prevention. Organizations running affected Chrome versions face significant risk of unauthorized access, data exfiltration, and potential complete system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-5761 primarily focus on immediate remediation through software updates, as Google released Chrome version 72.0.3626.81 to address the vulnerability. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management policies to ensure all Chrome installations are updated promptly, with particular attention to enterprise environments where browser updates may be delayed. Additional protective measures include implementing strict web content filtering, disabling unnecessary browser features such as WebGL when not required, and deploying sandboxing mechanisms that limit the potential impact of successful exploits. Network-based mitigations such as web application firewalls and content security policies can help reduce the likelihood of encountering malicious content that triggers this vulnerability. Security teams should also monitor for indicators of compromise related to this vulnerability, including unusual memory allocation patterns or suspicious process behavior that may suggest exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions and implementing layered security approaches to protect against sophisticated browser-based attacks that target graphics rendering components.