CVE-2019-8720 WebKitGTK WebKitGTK: memory-safety flaw
In plain words: The program mishandles the memory it uses to keep track of data. A specially made input can scramble that memory. Usually lets an attacker crash the program or run their own code with its permissions.
Confirmed exploited by CISA on · US federal patch deadline Jun 13, 2022
What to do
- Install WebKitGTK's security update for WebKitGTK. If no update exists, follow the vendor's workaround or stop using the product until one ships.
- Let the browser auto-update and relaunch it when it asks — the fix is not active until you do.
- Keep extensions to a minimum and remove ones you do not recognise.
- Stop using Internet Explorer and any browser that no longer gets updates.
Who is affected
Could reach you. This one is aimed at devices or apps of the kind people own.
What's at risk: A malicious or hacked website can be enough. Browser bugs are often the first step in a longer attack on the whole computer or phone.
The details
- Official name
- WebKitGTK Memory Corruption Vulnerability
- Product
- WebKitGTK WebKitGTK
- CISA description
- WebKitGTK contains a memory corruption vulnerability which can allow an attacker to perform remote code execution.
- Type of flaw
- Memory-safety flaw (CWE-119)
- Confirmed exploited
- May 23, 2022
- US federal patch deadline
- Jun 13, 2022
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Answering about CVE-2019-8720 ·
Questions about CVE-2019-8720
Is CVE-2019-8720 being exploited?
Yes. CISA added CVE-2019-8720 to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog on May 23, 2022, which means there is reliable evidence of real-world attacks.
How do I fix CVE-2019-8720?
Install WebKitGTK's security update for WebKitGTK. If no update exists, follow the vendor's workaround or stop using the product until one ships. Let the browser auto-update and relaunch it when it asks — the fix is not active until you do.
Am I affected by CVE-2019-8720?
Only if you use WebKitGTK WebKitGTK. This one is aimed at devices or apps of the kind people own.