Attackers Can Execute Arbitrary Code in Chrome Sandbox Via Crafted HTML Page

What is CVE-2024-12693?

CVE-2024-12693 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting Google Chrome, specifically in the V8 JavaScript engine. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code within a sandboxed environment by using a crafted HTML page. The exploitation of this flaw can severely compromise an organization’s security posture, as it could lead to unauthorized access and control over systems running vulnerable versions of Google Chrome. Given the widespread use of Chrome in both personal and enterprise settings, the implications of this vulnerability could be far-reaching.

Technical Details

The vulnerability is characterized by an out-of-bounds memory access in the V8 engine, which is responsible for parsing and executing JavaScript in Chrome. This means that an attacker can manipulate memory locations that the program is not intended to access, allowing them to introduce malicious code that runs under the guise of a legitimate process. This flaw affects versions prior to 131.0.6778.204 of Google Chrome. It can be exploited through a specifically designed HTML page, requiring the victim to open the page in Chrome for the attack to succeed.

Potential Impact of CVE-2024-12693

1. Remote Code Execution: The most significant impact of this vulnerability is the ability for attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This could lead to full system compromise, allowing attackers to install malware, exfiltrate data, or manipulate system configurations.

2. Data Breaches: Given the nature of arbitrary code execution, sensitive data stored on the compromised system could be accessed and stolen. This includes user credentials, personal information, and corporate data, leading to potential regulatory and reputational damage for affected organizations.

3. Increased Attack Surface: With this vulnerability existing in a widely used browser, the number of potential targets increases significantly. Organizations using Google Chrome as their primary browser may find themselves more susceptible to targeted attacks, which can lead to broader network infiltration and additional exploits.

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