CVE-2022-4262 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE • 12/03/2022
Type confusion in V8 in Google Chrome prior to 108.0.5359.94 allowed a remote attacker to potentially exploit heap corruption via a crafted HTML page. (Chromium security severity: High)
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/28/2025
This vulnerability represents a critical type confusion issue within the V8 JavaScript engine that powers Google Chrome and Chromium-based browsers. The flaw exists in how the engine handles object type definitions and memory management during JavaScript execution, creating a scenario where the runtime incorrectly interprets the data type of objects stored in memory. Such type confusion vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous because they can lead to arbitrary code execution when the attacker can manipulate the memory layout to cause unintended behavior. The vulnerability affects Chrome versions prior to 108.0.5359.94 and has been classified as high severity by the Chromium security team due to its potential for remote exploitation.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper type checking mechanisms within V8's memory allocation and object management systems. When processing crafted HTML content containing malicious JavaScript code, the engine fails to properly validate type consistency during object operations, leading to situations where a variable intended to hold one type of data gets interpreted as another. This misinterpretation can cause heap corruption when the program attempts to access or modify memory locations using incorrect type assumptions. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be triggered through web-based attacks without requiring any user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website, making it a prime target for drive-by attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it provides attackers with a pathway to achieve arbitrary code execution on affected systems. Attackers can craft HTML pages that, when loaded in vulnerable browsers, will trigger the type confusion error and potentially allow them to execute malicious code with the privileges of the browser process. This capability enables a wide range of malicious activities including data theft, system compromise, and further lateral movement within networks. The vulnerability affects all operating systems where affected Chrome versions are installed, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile platforms, making it a widespread concern for organizations and individual users alike.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily focus on immediate remediation through browser updates to versions 108.0.5359.94 or later where the issue has been addressed. Organizations should implement robust patch management processes to ensure all systems are updated promptly. Additional protective measures include implementing web application firewalls, content security policies, and restricting access to potentially malicious websites through network filtering. Security teams should also consider deploying sandboxing technologies and monitoring for suspicious JavaScript behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-468, which describes improper type confinement, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for JavaScript execution, highlighting the need for comprehensive defensive strategies. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify any remaining instances of the vulnerable software within organizational networks.