CVE-2024-3159 is an out-of-bounds memory access vulnerability classified under CWE-125, affecting the V8 JavaScript engine component of Google Chrome versions prior to 123.0.6312.105. The vulnerability arises when V8 improperly handles memory boundaries during JavaScript execution, allowing an attacker to craft a malicious HTML page that triggers arbitrary read and write operations in the browser's memory space. This can lead to execution of arbitrary code, enabling attackers to compromise the browser process, steal sensitive information, or disrupt browser functionality. The attack vector is remote and requires user interaction, typically by convincing a user to visit a malicious or compromised website. No privileges or authentication are required, increasing the attack surface. The CVSS v3.1 score of 8.8 reflects high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low attack complexity and no privileges required. Although no public exploits have been observed, the vulnerability is critical due to the widespread use of Chrome and the potential for exploitation in targeted or mass phishing campaigns. The vulnerability was publicly disclosed on April 6, 2024, and Google has released a patched version (123.0.6312.105) to remediate the issue. Organizations using Chrome should prioritize updating to the patched version to mitigate risk.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-3159 is significant due to the widespread adoption of Google Chrome as the primary web browser in both enterprise and public sectors. Successful exploitation can lead to full compromise of the browser process, enabling attackers to bypass security controls, exfiltrate sensitive data, or deploy further malware. This can affect confidentiality by exposing user credentials and corporate data, integrity by allowing manipulation of web content or browser state, and availability by causing crashes or denial of service. Sectors such as finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure are particularly at risk due to the sensitive nature of their data and the strategic importance of their operations. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged in targeted phishing campaigns or watering hole attacks, increasing the risk to organizations with high web exposure. The requirement for user interaction means that user awareness and training also play a role in risk reduction. Overall, the vulnerability poses a high risk to European organizations if not promptly mitigated.

1. Immediately update all Google Chrome installations to version 123.0.6312.105 or later to apply the official patch addressing CVE-2024-3159. 2. Implement network-level protections such as web filtering and DNS filtering to block access to known malicious or suspicious websites that could host exploit payloads. 3. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring abnormal browser behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 4. Conduct user awareness training focused on phishing and social engineering risks to reduce the likelihood of users visiting malicious sites. 5. Enforce strict browser security configurations, including disabling unnecessary plugins and extensions that could increase attack surface. 6. Monitor security advisories from Google and related threat intelligence sources for updates on exploit availability or additional mitigations. 7. Consider deploying browser isolation technologies for high-risk user groups to contain potential exploitation attempts. 8. Regularly audit and inventory browser versions across the organization to ensure compliance with patching policies.