CVE-2022-3373 is a high-severity vulnerability identified in the V8 JavaScript engine used by Google Chrome versions prior to 106.0.5249.91. The vulnerability is classified as an out-of-bounds write (CWE-787), which occurs when the software writes data outside the boundaries of allocated memory. This flaw can be triggered remotely by an attacker who crafts a malicious HTML page that, when loaded by a vulnerable Chrome browser, causes the V8 engine to perform an out-of-bounds memory write. Such memory corruption can lead to arbitrary code execution, allowing the attacker to potentially execute malicious code in the context of the browser process. The CVSS v3.1 base score of 8.8 reflects the high impact of this vulnerability, with the vector indicating network attack vector (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), but requiring user interaction (UI:R). The scope is unchanged (S:U), and the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no known exploits in the wild have been reported at the time of publication, the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the widespread use of Chrome and the ease of exploitation via crafted web content. The vulnerability was reserved on 2022-09-30 and published on 2022-11-01, with Google having released patches in Chrome 106.0.5249.91 and later versions to address this issue. No specific patch links were provided in the source information, but users are advised to update to the latest Chrome version to mitigate the risk.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-3373 can be substantial given the ubiquitous use of Google Chrome as a primary web browser in corporate and public environments. Successful exploitation could lead to remote code execution within the browser context, potentially allowing attackers to bypass security controls, steal sensitive information, install malware, or move laterally within internal networks. This is particularly critical for sectors handling sensitive personal data under GDPR, such as finance, healthcare, and government agencies. The requirement for user interaction (visiting a malicious or compromised website) means phishing or drive-by download attacks could be vectors. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability could result in data breaches, operational disruptions, and reputational damage. Additionally, since Chrome is often used on endpoints connected to corporate networks, exploitation could serve as an initial foothold for more extensive attacks targeting European enterprises and critical infrastructure.

European organizations should prioritize immediate patching by ensuring all Chrome installations are updated to version 106.0.5249.91 or later. Beyond patching, organizations should implement web filtering solutions to block access to known malicious or suspicious websites that could host exploit payloads. Deploying endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of monitoring anomalous browser behavior can help detect exploitation attempts. User awareness training should emphasize caution when clicking on unknown links or visiting untrusted websites, reducing the risk of user interaction-based exploitation. Network segmentation can limit lateral movement if a browser compromise occurs. Additionally, organizations should enforce the use of browser security features such as sandboxing and site isolation, and consider restricting or monitoring the use of browser extensions that could be abused. Regular vulnerability scanning and threat intelligence updates will help maintain awareness of emerging exploits related to this vulnerability.