CVE-2021-30569 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE • 08/04/2021
Use after free in sqlite in Google Chrome prior to 92.0.4515.107 allowed a remote attacker to potentially exploit heap corruption via a crafted HTML page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/07/2021
The vulnerability CVE-2021-30569 represents a critical use-after-free condition within the sqlite database component embedded in Google Chrome browsers. This flaw exists in versions prior to 92.0.4515.107 and enables remote attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code through maliciously crafted HTML pages. The vulnerability stems from improper memory management within the sqlite library that Chrome utilizes for various database operations, particularly when handling web content that interacts with local storage mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a scenario where an attacker crafts an HTML page containing malicious javascript or web content that triggers specific database operations within the sqlite engine. When Chrome processes such content, the sqlite library fails to properly manage memory references after objects have been freed from memory, creating a situation where freed memory locations can be accessed and potentially overwritten. This use-after-free condition falls under the CWE-416 category of use-after-free vulnerabilities, which are particularly dangerous because they can lead to heap corruption and arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple browser exploitation as it represents a significant vector for remote code execution attacks. Attackers can leverage this flaw to bypass modern browser security mechanisms including sandboxing, as the vulnerability exists within the underlying database engine rather than the browser's rendering or execution layers. The attack surface is broad since any web page that interacts with sqlite databases through chrome's web APIs could potentially be used to trigger this condition, making it particularly dangerous in phishing campaigns or compromised websites. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for script-based execution and T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage, as it leverages web technologies to achieve code execution.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-30569 primarily focus on immediate browser updates to versions 92.0.4515.107 or later where the memory management issues within sqlite have been addressed. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management policies to ensure all chrome installations are updated promptly. Additional protective measures include network-based security controls such as web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious database-related requests, browser hardening configurations that restrict database access permissions, and user education regarding the risks of visiting untrusted websites. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date third-party libraries within browser environments and highlights how seemingly isolated components like database engines can create widespread security implications across entire browser ecosystems.