A recent vulnerability, CVE-2023-0930, has been discovered in the video component of Google Chrome versions prior to 110..5481.177, which can lead to potential heap corruption. This vulnerability, classified as a heap buffer overflow, can be exploited by a remote attacker who gains access to a victim's system through a specifically crafted HTML page. In this detailed look at the vulnerability, we will analyze the code and provide relevant links to original references. We will also discuss the details of the exploit and offer possible mitigations. The severity level of this vulnerability, according to Chromium's security assessment, is "High."

Understanding Heap Buffer Overflow

Heap buffer overflow is a common security vulnerability that occurs when a program writes data past the end of a buffer allocated on the heap, corrupting adjacent data in the process. This can cause undefined program behavior, including crashes, incorrect program execution, and even allow attackers to execute arbitrary code on a vulnerable system.

CVE-2023-0930 in Google Chrome

This particular heap buffer overflow vulnerability affects the video handling component of the Google Chrome browser. The vulnerability exists in versions of Chrome prior to 110..5481.177, and is documented in the following Chromium bug report: https://bugs.chromium.org/p/chromium/issues/detail?id=1337043

The vulnerability can be exploited when a user visits a specifically tailored HTML page created by an attacker. The malicious HTML code triggers the heap buffer overflow, potentially allowing the attacker to exploit heap corruption to gain control over the victim's system.

Here's a simple example of how an attacker might leverage this vulnerability

<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
  <title>Exploit Demo: CVE-2023-0930</title>
</head>
<body>
  <video id="vulnVideo" width="400" controls>
    <source src="malicious_video_file.mp4" type="video/mp4">
  </video>
  <script>
    document.getElementById('vulnVideo').addEventListener('loadedmetadata', function() {
      // Insert exploit code here to take advantage of the heap buffer overflow
    });
  </script>
</body>
</html>

In this example, we have an HTML page with a video element that loads a malicious video file. When the video element's metadata is loaded, the exploit code is triggered, taking advantage of the heap buffer overflow vulnerability.

Crashing the browser or the affected system, causing potential damage or disruption.

2. Gaining unauthorized access to the victim's system, allowing the attacker access to sensitive information.

Mitigation Measures

As this vulnerability affects Google Chrome versions prior to 110..5481.177, the most immediate and effective way to mitigate this threat is by updating Google Chrome to its latest version. You can download the latest version of Google Chrome from the following link: https://www.google.com/chrome

In addition to updating your browser, here are some best practices to minimize your risk of exposure to this and other vulnerabilities:

Conclusion

Heap buffer overflow vulnerabilities, such as CVE-2023-0930 in Google Chrome, can lead to severe consequences if left unaddressed. It is crucial for users to keep their browsers and other software updated regularly to minimize the risk of such vulnerabilities being exploited. By following best practice measures, users can protect their systems from potential harm and mitigate the risks associated with this "High" severity vulnerability.

Timeline

Published on: 02/22/2023 20:15:00 UTC
Last modified on: 02/28/2023 02:20:00 UTC