CVE-2024-3159 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE • 04/06/2024
Out of bounds memory access in V8 in Google Chrome prior to 123.0.6312.105 allowed a remote attacker to perform arbitrary read/write via a crafted HTML page. (Chromium security severity: High)
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/09/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2024-3159 represents a critical out-of-bounds memory access flaw within the V8 JavaScript engine used in Google Chrome versions prior to 6312.105. This issue stems from improper bounds checking during memory operations within the engine's execution environment, creating a pathway for remote code execution through malicious web content. The vulnerability manifests when the V8 engine processes crafted HTML pages that trigger memory access patterns beyond allocated buffer boundaries, potentially allowing attackers to read or write to arbitrary memory locations.
This memory corruption vulnerability operates at the core of Chrome's JavaScript engine where memory management and object allocation occur. The flaw enables attackers to manipulate memory addresses through carefully constructed JavaScript code or HTML elements that cause the V8 engine to access memory regions outside their intended boundaries. Such out-of-bounds access can result in information disclosure, arbitrary code execution, or system compromise when combined with other exploitation techniques. The Chromium security severity classification of High indicates the potential for significant impact given the remote exploitability and privilege escalation capabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption to encompass complete system compromise potential. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code on victim systems simply by visiting a malicious webpage, making it particularly dangerous for web-based attacks. The vulnerability's exploitation requires no user interaction beyond visiting the malicious site, which aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter. The memory access patterns involved typically fall under CWE-125, out-of-bounds read, and potentially CWE-787, out-of-bounds write, depending on the specific exploitation vector. Attackers may use this vulnerability to bypass security controls, escalate privileges, or establish persistent access to compromised systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-3159 center on immediate patch deployment for Chrome versions prior to 123.0.6312.105, as this represents the most effective defense against exploitation. Organizations should implement browser security policies that enforce automatic updates and maintain strict control over browser versions in enterprise environments. Additional defensive measures include deploying web application firewalls, implementing content security policies, and utilizing sandboxing technologies that limit the impact of potential exploitation. The vulnerability highlights the importance of regular security updates and proper memory management practices in JavaScript engines. Security teams should also monitor for indicators of compromise related to this vulnerability and implement network-based detection mechanisms to identify potential exploitation attempts. Given the high severity classification, immediate remediation is essential to prevent potential exploitation by threat actors who may be actively targeting this vulnerability in the wild.