CVE-2021-21161 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A heap buffer overflow vulnerability in TabStrip in Google Chrome prior to version 89.0.4389.72 could allow a remote attacker to exploit heap corruption using a crafted HTML page.

Understanding CVE-2021-21161

This section provides insights into the vulnerability, its impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.

What is CVE-2021-21161?

The CVE-2021-21161 is a heap buffer overflow vulnerability in the TabStrip component of Google Chrome versions before 89.0.4389.72. Exploitation of this vulnerability could enable a remote attacker to trigger heap corruption through a maliciously crafted HTML page.

The Impact of CVE-2021-21161

The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows an attacker to potentially execute arbitrary code, perform denial of service attacks, or gain sensitive information by exploiting the heap corruption issue in Chrome.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-21161

In this section, we delve into the specific technical aspects of the CVE-2021-21161 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability involves a heap buffer overflow in the TabStrip component of Google Chrome. An attacker can exploit this issue by convincing a user to visit a specially crafted web page.

Affected Systems and Versions

Systems running Google Chrome versions prior to 89.0.4389.72 are vulnerable to this exploit. Users are advised to update to the latest version to mitigate the risk.

Exploitation Mechanism

By creating a malicious HTML page, an attacker can trigger the heap buffer overflow in the TabStrip component of Chrome, leading to potential heap corruption.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines the steps users and administrators can take to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-21161.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update Google Chrome to version 89.0.4389.72 or later to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability. Additionally, users should exercise caution when visiting untrusted websites.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure browsing habits, keeping software up to date, and using reputable security tools can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for updates to Google Chrome and apply patches promptly to address security vulnerabilities and enhance the overall security posture of the system.