CVE-2020-16044

What it actually does

Use-after-free vulnerability in WebRTC allows heap corruption when processing a crafted SCTP packet, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or browser crash.

Why it matters to the business

Attackers could gain control of affected systems or steal sensitive data through browser compromise; widespread Linux package exposure increases operational risk and patch urgency across many environments.

How an attack unfolds

An attacker crafts a malicious SCTP packet and delivers it via a WebRTC connection to trigger the use-after-free condition, enabling heap manipulation for code execution.

How to fix it

Update Chrome to version 88.0.4324.96 or later. For listed Linux distributions apply the exact fixed package versions such as Debian 3.8.11-1, Ubuntu 16.04 LTS linux 4.2.0-16.19, linux-aws 4.4.0-1001.10, and equivalent updates for all other listed variants.

How to confirm the fix worked

Verify Chrome reports version 88.0.4324.96 or higher; confirm Linux package versions match the listed fixed releases using distribution package managers and restart affected processes.

Typical attack path

1. Establish a WebRTC session with the target browser
2. Send a specially crafted SCTP packet over the data channel
3. Trigger use-after-free to corrupt heap memory
4. Leverage corruption for arbitrary code execution or sandbox escape

How to detect it

Review browser process logs and crash reports for WebRTC SCTP handling errors; inspect network captures for anomalous SCTP packets targeting WebRTC endpoints.

What your security team should do

• Prioritize immediate browser and dependent Linux package updates due to high CVSS and public exploitability
• Monitor for WebRTC traffic anomalies and restrict unnecessary SCTP usage
• Apply least-privilege sandboxing and network segmentation around browser endpoints