CVE-2006-3807 in Firefox
Summary
by MITRE
Mozilla Firefox before 1.5.0.5, Thunderbird before 1.5.0.5, and SeaMonkey before 1.0.3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via script that changes the standard Object() constructor to return a reference to a privileged object and calling "named JavaScript functions" that use the constructor.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/13/2025
This vulnerability resides in the JavaScript engine of Mozilla Firefox, Thunderbird, and SeaMonkey applications prior to specific version releases. The flaw represents a sophisticated privilege escalation attack vector that exploits the fundamental object construction mechanisms within the browser's JavaScript runtime environment. The vulnerability specifically targets the Object() constructor, which serves as the foundation for all JavaScript object creation and manipulation within these applications. Attackers can manipulate this core constructor to redirect its behavior, causing it to return references to privileged objects that should normally be inaccessible to regular JavaScript execution contexts.
The technical implementation of this exploit leverages the ability to modify standard JavaScript constructors through prototype manipulation and function redefinition techniques. When the modified Object() constructor returns references to privileged objects, any JavaScript function that utilizes this constructor can inadvertently gain access to system-level capabilities and resources. This represents a critical flaw in the security model of these applications, as it allows unprivileged script execution to potentially access and manipulate privileged system components. The vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental breakdown in the sandboxing mechanisms that protect browser applications from malicious code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass full system compromise potential. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the browser process itself, potentially leading to complete system takeover. The attack requires minimal user interaction beyond visiting a malicious webpage or opening a specially crafted email message, making it particularly dangerous in real-world scenarios. This vulnerability directly violates the principle of least privilege and undermines the security boundaries that separate user-space JavaScript execution from system-level operations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate application of security patches to update to versions 1.5.0.5 or later for Firefox, 1.5.0.5 or later for Thunderbird, and 1.0.3 or later for SeaMonkey. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure timely deployment of security updates across all affected systems. Network-level defenses should include web content filtering and browser hardening measures that restrict JavaScript execution capabilities. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-254 in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog, specifically addressing security weaknesses related to insufficient privilege separation. From the ATT&CK framework perspective, this represents a privilege escalation technique that falls under the category of "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation" and may also involve "Command and Scripting Interpreter" tactics for executing malicious code within the compromised environment.