CVE-2022-2855 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE • 09/26/2022
Use after free in ANGLE in Google Chrome prior to 104.0.5112.101 allowed a remote attacker to potentially exploit heap corruption via a crafted HTML page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/22/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-2855 represents a critical use-after-free condition within the ANGLE graphics library component of Google Chrome. This issue affects versions prior to 104.0.5112.101 and enables remote attackers to potentially exploit heap corruption through maliciously crafted HTML pages. The ANGLE library serves as a crucial component that translates OpenGL ES commands into DirectX commands on Windows platforms, making it an essential part of Chrome's graphics rendering pipeline. When a use-after-free vulnerability exists in such a core system component, the potential attack surface expands significantly due to the widespread use of Chrome across various operating systems and devices.
The technical flaw manifests when the ANGLE library fails to properly manage memory references after objects have been freed from the heap. Specifically, the vulnerability occurs during the handling of certain graphics operations where memory allocated for graphics resources is released but subsequent code attempts to access that freed memory location. This memory management error creates a scenario where an attacker can manipulate the heap state to inject malicious code or cause arbitrary code execution. The flaw aligns with CWE-416, which specifically addresses use-after-free vulnerabilities, and represents a classic example of improper memory management that can lead to severe security implications.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-2855 extends beyond simple browser exploitation as it provides attackers with a pathway to achieve remote code execution on targeted systems. Since the vulnerability is triggered through web-based content, attackers can leverage this weakness in phishing campaigns, drive-by downloads, or compromised websites to deliver malicious payloads without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious page. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it operates at the graphics rendering level, meaning that even seemingly benign web content could contain the malicious HTML elements required to trigger the vulnerability. This characteristic places the vulnerability in the ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 technique for command and scripting interpreter, as it enables the execution of arbitrary code through browser-based attack surfaces.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-2855 primarily focus on immediate remediation through software updates and browser patching. Organizations should prioritize updating to Chrome version 104.0.5112.101 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the ANGLE use-after-free vulnerability. Additionally, implementing network-based protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems can provide additional layers of defense. Security teams should also consider deploying browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary graphics features, implementing strict content security policies, and monitoring for anomalous graphics-related memory allocations. The vulnerability highlights the importance of regular security updates and the need for comprehensive testing of graphics libraries within browser environments, particularly given the complex nature of modern graphics APIs and their interaction with web-based content. Organizations should also implement monitoring solutions that can detect unusual heap behavior or memory access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts.