CVE-2023-6345 is an integer overflow vulnerability identified in the Skia graphics library component of Google Chrome prior to version 119.0.6045.199. Skia is a widely used 2D graphics library responsible for rendering graphical content within the browser. The integer overflow occurs when processing certain crafted inputs, which can lead to memory corruption. An attacker who has already compromised the renderer process—typically through a separate exploit or malicious web content—can leverage this overflow to escape the Chrome sandbox. Sandbox escape is a critical step in escalating privileges from the restricted renderer process to the broader operating system environment, potentially allowing arbitrary code execution with higher privileges. The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 score of 9.6, reflecting its critical nature, with attack vector being network-based, low attack complexity, no privileges required, but user interaction needed (e.g., opening a malicious file or web content). The scope is changed, meaning the vulnerability affects components beyond the initially compromised renderer process, impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the potential for exploitation is high given Chrome's widespread use and the criticality of sandbox escapes. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-190 (Integer Overflow or Wraparound), a common and dangerous class of bugs that can lead to memory corruption and arbitrary code execution. The lack of available patches at the time of reporting emphasizes the need for rapid update deployment once fixes are released.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2023-6345 is significant due to the widespread use of Google Chrome across enterprises, government agencies, and critical infrastructure sectors. A successful exploit could allow attackers to break out of the browser sandbox, leading to full system compromise on affected endpoints. This can result in data breaches, unauthorized access to sensitive information, disruption of services, and potential lateral movement within networks. Sectors such as finance, healthcare, energy, and public administration are particularly at risk due to their reliance on secure web browsing and the high value of their data. The vulnerability's ability to compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability simultaneously elevates the threat level. Additionally, the requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to deliver malicious files or links, increasing the attack surface. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the critical severity score and potential for sandbox escape necessitate urgent mitigation to prevent future attacks.

1. Immediate update of all Google Chrome installations to version 119.0.6045.199 or later once patches are available to eliminate the vulnerability. 2. Employ strict application control policies to restrict execution of unauthorized or suspicious files that could trigger the exploit. 3. Harden the sandbox environment by applying additional OS-level restrictions and leveraging security features such as Windows Defender Application Guard or Linux seccomp filters. 4. Implement network-level protections including web filtering and email security to reduce the risk of users encountering malicious files or links. 5. Conduct user awareness training focused on phishing and social engineering to minimize risky user interactions. 6. Monitor endpoint behavior for anomalies indicative of sandbox escape attempts or privilege escalation, using endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools. 7. Segment networks to limit lateral movement in case of compromise. 8. Maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans to quickly recover from potential breaches. 9. Coordinate with IT and security teams to prioritize patch management and vulnerability scanning for Chrome deployments. 10. Consider deploying browser isolation technologies to further reduce exposure to web-based threats.