CVE-2020-6463 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Use after free in ANGLE in Google Chrome prior to 81.0.4044.122 allowed a remote attacker to potentially exploit heap corruption via a crafted HTML page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/21/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-6463 represents a critical use-after-free condition within the ANGLE (Almost Native Graphics Layer Engine) component of Google Chrome. This flaw exists in versions prior to 81.0.4044.122 and enables remote code execution through maliciously crafted HTML pages. The ANGLE library serves as a graphics abstraction layer that translates OpenGL ES commands into DirectX commands on Windows platforms, making it a crucial component for rendering graphics in web browsers. When a use-after-free vulnerability occurs, it means that memory that has been freed is still being accessed or referenced by the application, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate program execution flow.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper memory management within the ANGLE implementation where objects are deallocated from memory but references to those objects persist in the application's execution path. This condition creates a scenario where an attacker can control the memory layout by allocating and deallocating objects in a specific pattern, potentially leading to heap corruption. The vulnerability manifests when processing crafted HTML content that triggers specific graphics rendering operations through the ANGLE library. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it operates at the graphics rendering level, allowing attackers to leverage graphics processing capabilities to execute arbitrary code on the target system.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risk to users of affected Chrome versions as it requires no user interaction beyond visiting a malicious webpage. The remote exploitation capability means attackers can deliver malicious content through various vectors including phishing emails, compromised websites, or advertising networks. The heap corruption resulting from this vulnerability can lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to execute code with the privileges of the browser process. This makes it particularly attractive for advanced persistent threat actors seeking to establish footholds in target environments. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-416, which specifically addresses use-after-free conditions, and represents a classic example of how graphics rendering libraries can become attack surfaces for remote code execution.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-6463 primarily involve immediate patching of Chrome browsers to versions 81.0.4044.122 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed. Organizations should implement comprehensive browser update policies and maintain awareness of security advisories from Google and other vendors. Network security controls such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems can provide additional layers of protection by blocking access to known malicious domains. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of keeping graphics drivers and system components updated, as the underlying DirectX components may also be affected. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual graphics rendering patterns and memory allocation behaviors that might indicate exploitation attempts. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving remote code execution through browser exploits and could be leveraged in initial access phases of cyber attacks, making it a critical target for defensive measures and incident response planning.