CVE-2020-6477 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE
Inappropriate implementation in installer in Google Chrome on OS X prior to 83.0.4103.61 allowed a local attacker to perform privilege escalation via a crafted file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/18/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-6477 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within the Chrome installer component on macOS systems. This issue affects Google Chrome versions prior to 83.0.4103.61 and stems from an insecure implementation in the installer's handling of file operations. The flaw enables local attackers to manipulate the installation process and elevate their privileges from standard user level to administrative access, creating a significant security risk for affected systems.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the installer's insufficient validation of file paths and permissions during the installation process. When Chrome installs or updates itself on macOS, the installer component fails to properly verify the authenticity and integrity of files being processed. This inadequate validation creates a window of opportunity for attackers to place malicious files in strategic locations within the installation directory structure. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the installer processes a crafted file that exploits the lack of proper access controls and file validation mechanisms. Attackers can leverage this weakness by creating malicious files with specific names or paths that the installer will process without adequate security checks, ultimately allowing them to execute code with elevated privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with a persistent foothold on compromised systems. Once an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they gain administrative privileges that enable them to install additional malware, modify system files, access sensitive data, and potentially establish backdoors for continued access. The local nature of this attack means that no network connectivity or external exploitation is required, making it particularly dangerous as it can be executed from within the target system itself. This type of vulnerability is classified under CWE-276 as "Incorrect Access Mode for a Resource" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation," highlighting the malicious use of system vulnerabilities for unauthorized access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-6477 primarily focus on updating to the patched version of Google Chrome, specifically version 83.0.4103.61 or later. Organizations should implement immediate patch management procedures to ensure all affected systems receive the update without delay. Additionally, system administrators should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify any systems that may not have been updated properly, as the vulnerability could remain exploitable until complete patch coverage is achieved. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect any suspicious installation activities or unauthorized privilege escalation attempts. The recommended defense-in-depth approach includes implementing application whitelisting policies, restricting user privileges where possible, and maintaining regular security audits of system installations. Security teams should also consider deploying endpoint detection and response solutions that can identify anomalous installation behaviors or file manipulation activities that might indicate exploitation attempts.