Heap Corruption Vulnerability in Chrome Prior to 128.0.6613.84

CVE-2024-7971

9.6CRITICAL

Key Information

Vendor: Google
Status: Chrome
Vendor: CVE Published:; 21 August 2024

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What is CVE-2024-7971?

CVE-2024-7971 is a heap corruption vulnerability present in Google Chrome versions prior to 128.0.6613.84. This vulnerability arises from a type confusion issue within the V8 JavaScript engine, allowing remote attackers to exploit the vulnerability through specially crafted HTML content. The implications for organizations are serious, as successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access, data leakage, or even remote code execution, impacting user security and overall system integrity.

Technical Details

The vulnerability is rooted in the handling of JavaScript code by the V8 engine, where incorrect type handling can result in heap corruption. This flaw enables an attacker to manipulate memory in ways that can compromise the stability and security of the Chrome browser. During exploitation, an attacker typically needs to trick a user into visiting a malicious webpage that leverages this vulnerability. As a result, it reinforces the need for proactive security measures and timely updates to browser software.

Impact of the Vulnerability

Remote Code Execution: Successful exploitation of CVE-2024-7971 can allow attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected system. This could lead to full system compromise and the ability to install and run malicious software without user consent.
Data Exposure: The capability for remote exploitation poses a risk of leaking sensitive information. Attackers may gain access to confidential data stored in the browser or manipulate user sessions, leading to unauthorized access to accounts.
Widespread Attacks: Given the popularity of Google Chrome as a web browser, the existence of this vulnerability heightens the risk for a broad range of users, making it a potential target for widespread attacks and increasing the likelihood of general exploitation efforts by cybercriminals.

CISA Reported

CISA provides regional cyber and physical services to support security and resilience across the United States. CISA monitor the most dangerious vulnerabilities and have identifed CVE-2024-7971 as being exploited but is not known by the CISA to be used in ransomware campaigns. This is subject to change at pace as recent news articles suggest the vulnerability is being used by ransomware groups.

The CISA's recommendation is: Apply mitigations per vendor instructions or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable.

Affected Version(s)

Chrome < 128.0.6613.84

News Articles

Forbes

CVE-2024-7971 CVE-2024-7965

Google Chrome Update Warning Prompts Microsoft To Suggest Using SmartScreen Instead

Attack details confirmed, as 2 billion Chrome users given stark decision to make.

3 months ago

Microsoft

CVE-2024-7971

North Korean threat actor Citrine Sleet exploiting Chromium zero-day | Microsoft Security Blog

Microsoft observed North Korean threat actor Citrine Sleet exploiting the CVE-2024-7971 zero-day vulnerability in Chromium. Citrine Sleet targets the cryptocurrency sector for financial gain.

4 months ago