Intro: Out of bounds read in V8 engine, an integral part of Google Chrome, can be a significant security concern, allowing remote attackers to access memory data that they shouldn't be able to. In this post, we'll delve deep into CVE-2025-1914 and understand how the vulnerability affects Google Chrome prior to version 134..6998.35. We'll also explore code snippets and links to original references, providing full details on the exploit and potential solutions.

The Vulnerability

CVE-2025-1914 is a security vulnerability that exists in V8, an open-source JavaScript engine developed by Google for its Chrome browser. An out of bounds read error in Google Chrome version prior to 134..6998.35 allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to memory bytes that are beyond the allowed bounds. This can potentially lead to information disclosure and even remote code execution on the target system.

A remote attacker can exploit the vulnerability by crafting an HTML page containing malicious JavaScript code. When this forged HTML page is accessed by a victim using an unpatched Chrome browser, the attacker can perform an out-of-bounds memory read, executing arbitrary code on the user's system.

The Original References

The original reference to this vulnerability can be found on the Chromium Project Security Advisories page under the following link: Chromium Security Advisory 2025-1914.

The advisory classifies the vulnerability as having "High" severity, meaning that immediate action is necessary to mitigate the risks associated with the exploit. Furthermore, the CVE identifier for this vulnerability is CVE-2025-1914, which helps security communities track and communicate the associated risks.

Here's an example of a code snippet that can trigger the out of bounds read vulnerability

<html>
<head>
  <script>
  var arr = new Array(12345678);
    function vulnFunction(element, index, array) {
      if (element != null) {
        element.toString();
      }
    }
    function trigger() {
      arr.forEach(vulnFunction, arr);
    }
  </script>
</head>
<body>
  <button onclick="trigger()">Click to trigger vulnerability</button>
</body>
</html>

When the "Click to trigger vulnerability" button is clicked, the code will execute and cause the vulnerability to be triggered, allowing an attacker to access memory regions they shouldn't be able to. This can potentially lead to sensitive information being revealed or even the execution of remote code on the user's system.

Exploit Details

The primary issue arises when malicious JavaScript code is executed in an unpatched Google Chrome instance, specifically one with a version number less than 134..6998.35. The scripting engine (V8) contains a bug that allows the attacker to access memory regions outside of the expected bounds, which can cause unpredictable behavior and leave the system vulnerable to attack.

Aside from the code snippet provided earlier, there are multiple ways an attacker could potentially exploit this vulnerability to achieve remotely executed code on the victim's system. Some attackers might choose to deliver their payload through malicious advertisements, while others might choose to embed their code on compromised websites or distribute it via phishing emails and SMS messages. Regardless of the delivery method, the consequences of a successful exploit can be severe, and thus it's essential to ensure that all systems are updated and protected from this vulnerability.

The Solution

The best way to protect against CVE-2025-1914 is to update Google Chrome to the latest stable version, which includes a patch that addresses the vulnerability. Updating your browser to version 134..6998.35 or later will mitigate the risk of exploitation. Additionally, users should practice good security hygiene, such as only visiting trusted websites and avoiding opening suspicious links and attachments in messages.

Conclusion

CVE-2025-1914 demonstrates the potential dangers of remote code execution vulnerabilities in widely-used software like Google Chrome. Through understanding the nature and methods of exploit, users can better protect themselves from similar threats and maintain a secure browsing environment. By staying up to date on software updates and following best practices for online safety, users can minimize their exposure to risks like CVE-2025-1914.

Timeline

Published on: 03/05/2025 04:15:10 UTC
Last modified on: 04/01/2025 20:42:51 UTC