CVE-2021-4055 : What You Need to Know

A heap buffer overflow vulnerability was discovered in Google Chrome prior to version 96.0.4664.93. This vulnerability could allow an attacker to exploit heap corruption by convincing a user to install a malicious extension.

Understanding CVE-2021-4055

This section will cover the details of the CVE-2021-4055 vulnerability in Google Chrome.

What is CVE-2021-4055?

The CVE-2021-4055 vulnerability is a heap buffer overflow issue in extensions in Google Chrome that could be exploited by a malicious extension to corrupt the heap.

The Impact of CVE-2021-4055

The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it could be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary code on a victim's system, leading to potential information disclosure or system compromise.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-4055

Let's dive into the technical aspects of CVE-2021-4055.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from a heap buffer overflow in Chrome extensions, allowing for potential heap corruption exploitation via a crafted Chrome Extension.

Affected Systems and Versions

Google Chrome versions prior to 96.0.4664.93 are affected by this vulnerability, making users susceptible to exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by convincing users to install a malicious extension, which then triggers the heap buffer overflow, leading to heap corruption.

Mitigation and Prevention

To protect systems from CVE-2021-4055, certain steps need to be taken.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update their Google Chrome browser to version 96.0.4664.93 or newer to mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Maintaining browser security best practices such as avoiding suspicious extensions and regularly updating the browser can enhance overall security posture.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for browser updates and apply patches promptly to address known vulnerabilities and enhance system security.