CVE-2018-18356 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability was found in Google Chrome versions before 71.0.3578.80, allowing a remote attacker to exploit heap corruption. The issue stemmed from an integer overflow in path handling, resulting in a use after free problem in Skia.

Understanding CVE-2018-18356

This CVE pertains to a security flaw in Google Chrome that could be exploited by a remote attacker.

What is CVE-2018-18356?

An integer overflow in path handling led to a use after free vulnerability in Skia in Google Chrome versions prior to 71.0.3578.80, potentially enabling a remote attacker to trigger heap corruption via a crafted HTML page.

The Impact of CVE-2018-18356

The vulnerability could allow a remote attacker to exploit heap corruption by utilizing a maliciously crafted HTML page.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-18356

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Google Chrome versions before 71.0.3578.80 was caused by an integer overflow in path handling, resulting in a use after free issue in Skia.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Chrome
Vendor: Google
Versions Affected: < 71.0.3578.80

Exploitation Mechanism

The flaw could potentially allow a remote attacker to exploit heap corruption by utilizing a maliciously crafted HTML page.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Google Chrome to version 71.0.3578.80 or later.
Avoid clicking on suspicious links or visiting untrusted websites.
Implement security best practices for web browsing.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to the latest versions.
Employ security tools like antivirus and firewalls.
Stay informed about security threats and vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates for Google Chrome.