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CVE-2024-9680
Browser Zero-Day (Chrome) & Windows Sandbox Escape Exploit Chain
Overview
CVE-2024-9680 is a zero-day vulnerability in the Chrome browser, specifically a use-after-free bug in the Animation timeline. It was exploited in the wild in 2024, often chained with CVE-2024-49039 (Windows Sandbox Escape) to install persistent malware on host systems.
Technical Details
- Vulnerability Type: Use-After-Free (Remote Code Execution)
- Affected Component: Chrome V8 JavaScript Engine (Animation timeline)
- Attack Vector: Remote (via malicious website)
- Impact: Allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code in the context of the browser
- Exploitation: Used in combination with Windows zero-days (e.g., CVE-2024-49039) to escape the browser sandbox and persist on the system
Exploitation
Attackers used CVE-2024-9680 to achieve remote code execution in the Chrome browser. The exploit was typically delivered via malicious websites or ads. Once the browser was compromised, the attackers chained it with a Windows sandbox escape (CVE-2024-49039) to break out of the browser sandbox and install malware persistently on the host.
This exploit chain was observed in malware campaigns, where users were tricked into visiting malicious sites. The browser exploit would run in the sandbox, and the Windows zero-day would allow the malware to escape and gain elevated privileges on the system.
Windows Connection
While CVE-2024-9680 itself is a browser vulnerability, its real-world impact was amplified by its use alongside Windows zero-days. The combination allowed attackers to:
- Execute arbitrary code in the browser (CVE-2024-9680)
- Escape the browser sandbox (CVE-2024-49039)
- Install persistent malware on the Windows host
Affected Systems
- Google Chrome (versions before the patch)
- Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based, if using the vulnerable Chrome engine)
- Windows 10 and Windows 11 (when paired with Windows sandbox escape exploits)
Patch Information
Google patched CVE-2024-9680 in early 2024. Users are strongly advised to keep their browsers and operating systems up to date to prevent exploitation.
Mitigation
- Update Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge to the latest version.
- Apply the latest Windows security updates to patch sandbox escape vulnerabilities.
- Exercise caution when visiting untrusted websites or clicking on unknown links.
- Use modern security solutions to detect and block exploit attempts.