Google Chrome emergency security update to fix arbitrary code execution vulnerability in Blink

At the end of last month, Google Chrome pushed the emergency security update to fix the browser vulnerability. At the time, the Google Chrome blog did not disclose the specific details of the vulnerability. At this time, Google also began to disclose the details of this emergency update.

The currently disclosed information indicates that the vulnerability is primarily a Google Chrome kernel escape vulnerability that could be triggered by an attacker who induced a user to visit a particular website. After the vulnerability is triggered, the attacker can execute arbitrary code in the user’s browser, including stealing the user’s account password and sensitive information in other browsers. In the specific attack mode, the attacker can use the phishing email to conduct targeted attacks, or you can use the ad network to advertise to guide users to access. This vulnerability is marked as urgent by Google Chrome, which means that all users should immediately upgrade to the latest version to ensure that the vulnerability has been blocked.

The vulnerability was discovered by the Center for Internet Security (via Lifehacker) who urged users to update Google Chrome immediately.

A vulnerability has been discovered in Google Chrome which could result in arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability is a use-after-free vulnerability in Blink that can be exploited if a user visits, or is redirected to, a specially crafted web page.

Successful exploitation of this vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code in the context of the browser, obtain sensitive information, bypass security restrictions and perform unauthorized actions, or cause denial-of-service conditions.

Depending on the privileges associated with the application, an attacker could install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full user rights.

The Center for Internet Security recommends the following to all the Chrome users to ensure they’re not affected by the vulnerability.

• Apply the stable channel update provided by Google to vulnerable systems immediately after appropriate testing.
• Run all software as a non-privileged user (one without administrative privileges) to diminish the effects of a successful attack.
• Remind users not to visit un-trusted websites or follow links provided by unknown or un-trusted sources.
• Inform and educate users regarding the threats posed by hypertext links contained in emails or attachments especially from un-trusted sources.
• Apply the Principle of Least Privilege to all systems and services.

To protect yourself, make sure that you are using the latest Google Chrome version (v76.0.3809.132).