Use After Free Vulnerability in Google Chrome

CVE-2025-0445

What is CVE-2025-0445?

CVE-2025-0445 is a serious vulnerability affecting Google Chrome, specifically impacting its V8 JavaScript engine. This use-after-free vulnerability could allow a remote attacker to exploit heap corruption when users visit maliciously crafted HTML pages. Given the widespread use of Google Chrome for browsing and web applications, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to organizations that rely on this popular web browser for secure communications and operations. If left unpatched, it could lead to unauthorized access and manipulation of sensitive data.

Technical Details

The vulnerability is classified as a use-after-free flaw within the V8 engine of Google Chrome versions prior to 133.0.6943.53. Use-after-free vulnerabilities occur when a program continues to use a memory location after it has been freed, leading to potential memory corruption. This flaw can be triggered by specially crafted HTML content, enabling an attacker to potentially gain control of affected systems by executing arbitrary code through heap manipulation.

Potential Impact of CVE-2025-0445

1. Heap Corruption Exploits: The vulnerability can be exploited via crafted HTML pages, allowing attackers to corrupt memory and potentially execute malicious code. This could lead to severe security breaches, including unauthorized access to sensitive information.

2. Remote Code Execution: An effective exploit may result in remote code execution, allowing attackers to manipulate affected systems from afar. This could have catastrophic implications for organizational security, enabling further attacks or the installation of additional malware.

3. Data Breaches and Information Theft: Exploiting this vulnerability could lead to data breaches, where sensitive user data or corporate information is exposed to attackers. This not only poses a direct risk to affected organizations but can also damage reputations and consumer trust, with potential legal repercussions.

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