CVE-2021-21117 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A local attacker could exploit an insufficient policy enforcement vulnerability in Cryptohome in Google Chrome before version 88.0.4324.96 to perform OS-level privilege escalation via a crafted file.

Understanding CVE-2021-21117

This section will cover what CVE-2021-21117 is and its impact.

What is CVE-2021-21117?

CVE-2021-21117 refers to an insufficient policy enforcement vulnerability in Cryptohome in Google Chrome, allowing a local attacker to achieve OS-level privilege escalation through a specially crafted file.

The Impact of CVE-2021-21117

The impact of this vulnerability includes local attackers gaining elevated privileges on the system, which can lead to further exploitation or compromise of sensitive data.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-21117

Here, we will delve into the specific technical details of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from a lack of proper enforcement in Cryptohome in Google Chrome, enabling local attackers to escalate their privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

Google Chrome versions prior to 88.0.4324.96 are affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the vulnerability by leveraging a meticulously crafted file to achieve OS-level privilege escalation.

Mitigation and Prevention

In this section, we will discuss the steps to mitigate and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2021-21117.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update their Google Chrome browser to version 88.0.4324.96 or later to mitigate the vulnerability. Additionally, users should exercise caution when handling untrusted files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Establishing a robust security posture, including regular software updates, security awareness training, and adhering to best practices, can help prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Keep systems and software up to date with the latest patches and security updates to safeguard against potential security risks.