CVE-2024-3170: Exploring Use After Free Vulnerability in WebRTC Component in Google Chrome Versions Prior to 121..6167.85
In this post, we will explore a critical security vulnerability, CVE-2024-3170, which affects Google Chrome versions prior to 121..6167.85. This use-after-free vulnerability occurs in the WebRTC component, potentially allowing remote attackers to exploit heap corruption through a carefully crafted HTML page.
Use-after-free vulnerabilities occur when memory is freed and then used again, possibly leading to remote code execution. Given that this vulnerability is deemed "High" severity by Chromium, it is vital to understand the issue and ensure systems are patched accordingly.
Background Details
The vulnerability was discovered in the WebRTC component of Google Chrome. WebRTC (Web Real-Time Communication) is an open-source project that enables real-time voice, video, and data communication between web browsers via simple APIs.
CVE-2024-3170 Explained
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in improper handling of the memory allocation and deallocation process, leading to a use-after-free scenario. The vulnerability can be triggered by a remote attacker crafting a malicious HTML page that, when loaded by the victim, exploits heap corruption, potentially leading to information disclosure or arbitrary code execution.
In the following sections, we will discuss an example of a code snippet that demonstrates the vulnerability, original references, and exploit details.
Below is a simplified code snippet that shows how an attacker might exploit the vulnerability
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
<script>
function createPeerConnection() {
var configuration = {'iceServers': []};
return new RTCPeerConnection(configuration);
}
function callExploit() {
var pc = createPeerConnection();
pc.onnegotiationneeded = function() {
setTimeout(function() {
pc.oaddstream = null;
pc = null;
}, 50);
}
var stream = new MediaStream();
pc.addStream(stream);
}
</script>
</head>
<body>
<button onclick="callExploit()">Trigger Vulnerability</button>
</body>
</html>
In the code snippet above, the createPeerConnection() function creates a new RTCPeerConnection with an empty configuration. The callExploit() function then sets the onnegotiationneeded property of the RTCPeerConnection object. This property will be nullified after a brief delay, creating the use-after-free condition.
Original References
The Chromium project has reported this issue in their security release notes, which can be found here: https://chromereleases.googleblog.com/2022/02/stable-channel-update-for-desktop_8.html
The CVE details page containing more information about this vulnerability is available here: https://cve.mitre.org/cgi-bin/cvename.cgi?name=CVE-2024-3170
Exploit Details
The successful exploitation of this vulnerability could result in heap corruption, which means the attacker might be able to access or modify memory content. This could lead to one or more of the following:
1. Information disclosure: The attacker could gain access to sensitive data stored in memory, such as the victim's browsing history or login credentials.
2. Arbitrary code execution: The attacker might be able to execute arbitrary code, potentially gaining control of the victim's computer, running additional exploits, or spreading malware.
Mitigation Recommendations
To mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2024-3170, it is essential to update Google Chrome to the latest version (121..6167.85 or higher), which contains the necessary patches to address the vulnerability. To check your current Chrome version and update if necessary, go to "Help -> About Google Chrome" in the browser menu.
Conclusion
CVE-2024-3170 highlights the potential dangers posed by use-after-free vulnerabilities and the need for vigilance when it comes to updating software to address critical security issues. By understanding the root cause, potential exploits, and recommended mitigations, users and organizations can better protect themselves against such threats.
Timeline
Published on: 07/16/2024 23:15:23 UTC
Last modified on: 08/01/2024 13:56:23 UTC