CVE-2006-2782 in Seamonkey
Summary
by MITRE
Firefox 1.5.0.2 does not fix all test cases associated with CVE-2006-1729, which allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files by inserting the target filename into a text box, then turning that box into a file upload control.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/20/2019
This vulnerability represents a persistent security flaw in the firefox web browser that emerged from incomplete remediation of an earlier vulnerability. The issue stems from firefox version 1.5.0.2 failing to fully address all test cases related to CVE-2006-1729, creating a lingering attack vector that threat actors could exploit to gain unauthorized access to sensitive system files. The vulnerability specifically targets the browser's handling of file upload controls and text input fields, demonstrating a critical weakness in the application's security model for processing user-supplied data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the browser's insufficient validation mechanisms when processing form elements that transition from text input to file upload controls. Attackers can manipulate the browser's behavior by first inserting a target filename into a regular text box, then subsequently transforming that text box into a file upload control through malicious javascript or crafted html code. This transformation allows the browser to process the specified filename as if it were a legitimate file path, bypassing normal security restrictions that should prevent arbitrary file access. The flaw resides in the browser's inability to properly validate the context and origin of file paths, particularly when elements change their functional behavior within the page lifecycle.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to read arbitrary files from the victim's local system. This could include sensitive configuration files, user credentials, application data, or system files that may contain critical information. The attack requires no special privileges on the target system, making it particularly dangerous as it can be executed through standard web browsing activities. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-22 as Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, which specifically addresses the risk of path traversal attacks where applications fail to properly validate file access requests.
From an adversary perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1566.001 for spearphishing attachment, as attackers can craft malicious web pages that exploit this flaw to access sensitive files. The attack vector typically involves hosting malicious content on compromised web servers or through social engineering campaigns that trick users into visiting compromised websites. The vulnerability demonstrates how incomplete security patches can create false senses of security, as the initial fix for CVE-2006-1729 was deemed insufficient, leaving the browser exposed to similar attack patterns.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate browser updates to versions that properly address all aspects of the original vulnerability, as well as implementing comprehensive input validation controls. Organizations should deploy web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious file path manipulation attempts, and implement strict content security policies that prevent dynamic form element transformations. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous file access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, user education regarding suspicious web content and the importance of keeping browsers updated remains crucial in defending against this type of vulnerability. The vulnerability underscores the importance of thorough testing and validation of security patches to ensure complete remediation of security issues.