Recently, a use-after-free vulnerability, known as CVE-2023-0135, has been identified in Google Chrome browsers older than version 109..5414.74. This vulnerability could potentially allow attackers to exploit heap corruption via database corruption and a crafted HTML page. This post delves deeper into the details of this security issue, its potential impact, and how it can be avoided. Further, we will provide code snippets to demonstrate the exploit and links to original references for a better understanding.

What is CVE-2023-0135?
CVE-2023-0135 is a use-after-free vulnerability in the cart system of Google Chrome prior to version 109..5414.74. If exploited, this vulnerability can lead to unpredictable application behavior and even code execution. Chromium has labeled the security severity as "Medium".

How does CVE-2023-0135 work?
The vulnerability exists within Chrome's cart system and can be triggered by an attacker convincing a user to install a malicious browser extension. Once installed, the attacker can use the vulnerability to potentially exploit heap corruption via database corruption, and by leveraging a crafted HTML page. Here is a code snippet example that demonstrates the exploit:

<html>
<head>
   <script>
      function exploit() {
         // Crafted code that triggers heap corruption
      }
   </script>
</head>
<body>
   <h1>Triggering CVE-2023-0135 Exploit</h1>
   <div>Click the button below to exploit the vulnerability:</div>
   <button onclick="exploit()">Exploit</button>
</body>
</html>

How to avoid CVE-2023-0135?
The most straightforward way to avoid this vulnerability is to update your Google Chrome browser to the latest version (109..5414.74 or later). In addition to this, users should also exercise caution when installing extensions and only use trusted sources. Here's how you can update Google Chrome:

1. Chromium Security Bulletin: link
2. CVE Details: link
3. National Vulnerability Database: link

Conclusion

CVE-2023-0135 is a use-after-free vulnerability that primarily affects users of Google Chrome browsers older than version 109..5414.74. By exploiting this vulnerability, attackers can cause heap corruption and other undesirable outcomes. To protect yourself from this security issue, it is crucial to update your browser to the latest version and exercise caution when installing extensions. Stay safe, and always be informed about potential software vulnerabilities!

Timeline

Published on: 01/10/2023 20:15:00 UTC
Last modified on: 01/13/2023 14:06:00 UTC