CVE-2022-0789 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE • 04/05/2022
Heap buffer overflow in ANGLE in Google Chrome prior to 99.0.4844.51 allowed a remote attacker to potentially exploit heap corruption via a crafted HTML page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/05/2022
This heap buffer overflow vulnerability exists within the ANGLE graphics library component that is integrated into Google Chrome browsers. The flaw manifests when processing crafted HTML content that triggers improper memory handling during graphics rendering operations. The vulnerability falls under the common weakness enumeration CWE-121 which specifically addresses heap-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to write beyond allocated memory regions. This particular issue affects Chrome versions prior to 99.0.4844.51 and represents a critical remote code execution vector that could be leveraged by malicious actors to compromise user systems.
The technical exploitation occurs when ANGLE processes malformed graphics commands or WebGL content that causes memory corruption in heap-allocated buffers. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management practices within the graphics rendering pipeline, specifically during shader compilation or texture handling operations. Attackers can craft malicious web pages containing specially constructed HTML elements that trigger the buffer overflow condition when Chrome attempts to render these elements using the ANGLE library. This exploitation technique aligns with the attack pattern described in ATT&CK matrix under T1203 - Exploitation for Client Execution, where adversaries leverage browser vulnerabilities to execute arbitrary code on target systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption as it provides a potential pathway for full system compromise. Remote attackers can leverage this heap overflow to overwrite critical memory structures, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the Chrome process. The attack surface is broad since any user visiting a compromised website could be affected, making this a particularly dangerous vulnerability for widespread exploitation. The vulnerability's remote nature eliminates the need for local system access, significantly increasing its threat potential and making it a prime target for automated attacks.
Mitigation strategies focus on immediate browser updates to version 99.0.4844.51 or later where the heap buffer overflow has been patched. Organizations should implement comprehensive browser update policies and consider deploying additional security measures such as Content Security Policy headers, sandboxing configurations, and web application firewalls to reduce the attack surface. Browser vendors recommend enabling automatic updates where possible to ensure timely patch deployment. The fix implemented by Google addresses the root cause through improved bounds checking in the ANGLE library's memory management routines, preventing the overflow condition from occurring during graphics processing operations. Security teams should monitor for related vulnerabilities in other graphics libraries and ensure that all browser components are kept current with security patches to prevent similar exploitation vectors.