CVE-2020-15998 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2020-15998, a critical use after free vulnerability in Google Chrome before 86.0.4240.99 that could allow a remote attacker to escape the sandbox environment via a crafted HTML page. Find out how to mitigate and prevent this security risk.
A use after free vulnerability in USB in Google Chrome prior to 86.0.4240.99 could allow a remote attacker to potentially escape the sandbox via a crafted HTML page.
Understanding CVE-2020-15998
This CVE involves a critical security issue in Google Chrome that could lead to a sandbox escape.
What is CVE-2020-15998?
CVE-2020-15998 is a use after free vulnerability in the USB component of Google Chrome before version 86.0.4240.99. This flaw could be exploited by a remote attacker who has compromised the renderer process.
The Impact of CVE-2020-15998
The vulnerability could enable an attacker to escape the browser's sandbox environment, potentially leading to further malicious activities.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-15998
This section provides more in-depth technical information about the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The use after free vulnerability in USB in Google Chrome allowed a compromised renderer process to potentially perform a sandbox escape through a specially crafted HTML page.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Chrome
- Vendor: Google
- Versions Affected: Less than 86.0.4240.99
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability could be exploited by a remote attacker who has already compromised the renderer process, using a specifically crafted HTML page.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2020-15998 is crucial to maintaining security.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Google Chrome to version 86.0.4240.99 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Be cautious while browsing and avoid clicking on suspicious links or visiting untrusted websites.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and applications to the latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities.
- Implement strong security measures such as firewalls and antivirus software to prevent and detect potential threats.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that all systems running Google Chrome are regularly updated with the latest security patches to address vulnerabilities like CVE-2020-15998.