CVE-2026-17952 in Chrome
Summary
by MITRE • 07/30/2026
Inappropriate implementation in V8 in Google Chrome prior to 151.0.7922.72 allowed an attacker who convinced a user to install a malicious extension to execute arbitrary code inside a sandbox via a crafted Chrome Extension. (Chromium security severity: Low)
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/30/2026
This vulnerability represents a sandbox escape flaw in the V8 JavaScript engine component of Google Chrome, specifically affecting versions prior to 151.0.7922.72. The issue stems from an improper implementation that allows malicious extensions to bypass the browser's security boundaries when executing code within the sandboxed environment. The vulnerability is categorized under chromium security severity level low but presents significant operational risks given its potential for privilege escalation through extension-based attack vectors.
The technical flaw manifests when a malicious extension is installed and executed, exploiting a weakness in how V8 handles certain JavaScript operations within the browser's sandboxed context. This allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges that should normally be restricted by the sandbox mechanism. The vulnerability specifically affects the Chrome Extension architecture where the extension's capabilities are not properly constrained during execution, creating an attack surface that can be exploited through carefully crafted malicious extensions.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability enables attackers to perform actions that would typically be prohibited within the browser's security model. A successful exploitation could allow for data exfiltration, system reconnaissance, or further compromise of the user's environment. The attack requires social engineering to convince users to install a malicious extension, but once installed, the sandbox escape could enable persistent access and elevated privileges. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1176 for Browser Extensions and T1059 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, representing both user interaction requirements and execution methods.
The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond immediate code execution as it undermines the fundamental security model that separates browser processes from user data. Organizations using affected Chrome versions face risks of credential theft, data breaches, and potential lateral movement within networks. The sandbox escape capability means that even if users employ security measures like two-factor authentication or access controls, the malicious extension could bypass these protections through this vulnerability.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching to versions 151.0.7922.72 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed. Organizations should also implement strict extension approval processes and regularly audit installed extensions to identify potentially malicious software. Browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary extension permissions and implementing content security policies can reduce attack surface. Additionally, user education programs should emphasize the risks of installing extensions from untrusted sources, as this remains a critical requirement for exploitation success.
This vulnerability demonstrates the complexity of modern browser security architectures where sandbox mechanisms must account for various execution contexts and privilege levels. The flaw highlights the importance of comprehensive testing of security boundaries in complex software environments. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous extension behavior or unauthorized code execution patterns within browser processes, as these may indicate exploitation attempts.
The vulnerability represents a specific instance of improper input validation and access control implementation that falls under CWE-250, which addresses privileges and access control issues. It demonstrates how seemingly minor implementation details in core components like V8 can create significant security risks when they fail to properly enforce security boundaries. The attack vector emphasizes the need for layered defense approaches where multiple security controls work together to protect against exploitation attempts.
Security teams should also consider this vulnerability in relation to broader threat landscape analysis, as it represents a potential entry point for advanced persistent threats targeting browser-based attacks. The low severity rating assigned by Chromium does not diminish the operational impact, particularly given that many organizations may have extended deployment cycles that leave systems vulnerable for extended periods. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should include evaluation of browser sandbox mechanisms to identify similar weaknesses in other software components.
Organizations implementing security controls should prioritize this vulnerability in their patch management schedules while maintaining awareness of related threats that leverage similar attack patterns. The complexity of modern browser environments requires continuous monitoring and updating of security measures to protect against evolving exploitation techniques that target core software components like JavaScript engines and extension frameworks.