CVE-2019-13721
Google · Chrome
A use-after-free vulnerability exists in the PDFium component of Google Chrome prior to version 78, potentially allowing for arbitrary code execution.
Executive summary
A use-after-free vulnerability in Google Chrome’s PDFium component poses a significant risk of arbitrary code execution for affected users.
Vulnerability
This is a use-after-free memory corruption vulnerability located within the PDFium engine. While specific authentication requirements are not explicitly stated, such browser-based flaws typically require user interaction, such as navigating to a malicious website.
Business impact
Successful exploitation of this memory corruption vulnerability could lead to arbitrary code execution within the context of the browser. This presents a high risk to business operations, as it could facilitate unauthorized system access, data exfiltration, or the deployment of malicious payloads on endpoints. The CVSS score of 8.8 reflects the high potential for impact on workstation and server security.
Remediation
Immediate Action: Update all Google Chrome installations to version 78 or later to ensure the PDFium component is patched.
Proactive Monitoring: Monitor endpoint logs for unusual browser activity or unexpected process crashes that may indicate exploitation attempts.
Compensating Controls: Utilize endpoint protection platforms (EPP) and browser-based security policies to restrict the execution of unauthorized scripts or malicious PDF content.
Exploitation status
Public Exploit Available: false
Analyst recommendation
Given the critical nature of browser-based vulnerabilities, organizations should prioritize updating all instances of Google Chrome. Failure to remediate this flaw may expose internal endpoints to remote code execution attacks; therefore, immediate deployment of the latest vendor security updates is strongly recommended.