CVE-2024-1077 is a high-severity use-after-free vulnerability identified in the Network component of Google Chrome versions prior to 121.0.6167.139. This vulnerability arises from improper handling of memory, specifically a use-after-free condition (CWE-416), where the program continues to use memory after it has been freed. An attacker can exploit this flaw by delivering a maliciously crafted file that triggers heap corruption, potentially allowing remote code execution or other unauthorized actions. The vulnerability requires no privileges and can be exploited remotely over the network, but does require some user interaction (such as opening or processing a malicious file). The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.8, indicating a high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vulnerability affects the widely used Google Chrome browser, which is a critical vector for web-based attacks. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the potential for exploitation remains significant given Chrome's extensive user base and the nature of the vulnerability. The flaw has been addressed in Chrome version 121.0.6167.139, and users are strongly advised to update to this or later versions to mitigate the risk.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk due to the widespread use of Google Chrome across enterprises, government agencies, and critical infrastructure sectors. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized remote code execution, data breaches, or disruption of services, impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive information and systems. Given the network-based attack vector and the requirement for user interaction, phishing campaigns or malicious file distribution could be leveraged by threat actors to target employees or systems. The impact is particularly critical for organizations handling sensitive personal data under GDPR, as a breach could result in regulatory penalties and reputational damage. Additionally, sectors such as finance, healthcare, and public administration, which rely heavily on secure web browsing, may face operational disruptions and increased risk of espionage or sabotage.

To mitigate this vulnerability, European organizations should prioritize immediate updating of all Google Chrome installations to version 121.0.6167.139 or later. Beyond patching, organizations should implement strict email and web filtering to block malicious files and links that could trigger exploitation. User awareness training should emphasize caution when opening unexpected or suspicious files, especially from unknown sources. Network segmentation and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions can help detect and contain exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should enforce the use of browser security features such as sandboxing, site isolation, and strict content security policies to reduce the attack surface. Regular vulnerability scanning and asset inventory management will ensure that no outdated Chrome versions remain in use. Finally, incident response plans should be updated to include scenarios involving browser-based exploitation.