CVE-2022-3050 is a high-severity heap buffer overflow vulnerability found in the WebUI component of Google Chrome running on Chrome OS versions prior to 105.0.5195.52. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of user interface interactions, which can lead to heap corruption. Specifically, a remote attacker can exploit this flaw by convincing a user to perform crafted UI interactions that trigger the overflow condition. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write), indicating that the flaw allows writing data outside the bounds of allocated heap memory. The exploitation requires no privileges and no prior authentication but does require user interaction, such as clicking or interacting with a maliciously crafted webpage or UI element. The CVSS v3.1 base score of 8.8 reflects the critical impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with an attack vector over the network, low attack complexity, and no privileges required. Successful exploitation could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code in the context of the browser, potentially leading to full system compromise on Chrome OS devices. Although no known exploits have been reported in the wild as of the publication date, the vulnerability's nature and impact make it a significant threat, especially given Chrome's widespread use. The lack of specified affected versions beyond the general Chrome OS version threshold suggests that all versions before 105.0.5195.52 are vulnerable. The vulnerability was publicly disclosed on September 26, 2022, and is enriched by CISA, indicating recognition by US cybersecurity authorities. No direct patch links are provided in the data, but Google typically addresses such vulnerabilities promptly in Chrome updates.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk, particularly for those relying on Chrome OS devices or environments where Chrome is the primary browser. Exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution, enabling attackers to steal sensitive data, install persistent malware, or disrupt operations by crashing or corrupting the system. Sectors such as finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure that use Chrome OS for secure browsing or kiosk applications could be targeted to gain footholds or exfiltrate confidential information. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be leveraged to trigger the exploit. Given the high CVSS score and the potential for full system compromise, the vulnerability could facilitate lateral movement within networks or serve as an entry point for broader attacks. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as attackers may develop exploits over time. The impact is amplified in environments where Chrome OS devices are used for sensitive tasks or where patch management is slow, increasing exposure duration.

European organizations should prioritize updating Chrome OS devices to version 105.0.5195.52 or later, where the vulnerability is patched. Since no direct patch links are provided, administrators should rely on official Google Chrome update channels and verify device firmware and OS versions regularly. Additionally, organizations should implement strict user awareness training to reduce the risk of social engineering attacks that could trigger the exploit. Employing endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous browser behavior or heap corruption attempts can provide an additional security layer. Network-level mitigations, such as web filtering and blocking access to known malicious sites, can reduce exposure to crafted UI interactions. For environments where immediate patching is not feasible, restricting or disabling unnecessary WebUI features in Chrome or using application whitelisting to limit execution of unauthorized code may help mitigate risk. Continuous monitoring for unusual browser crashes or suspicious activity on Chrome OS devices should be established to detect potential exploitation attempts early.