CVE-2007-5338 in Firefox
Summary
by MITRE
Mozilla Firefox before 2.0.0.8 and SeaMonkey before 1.1.5 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary Javascript with user privileges by using the Script object to modify XPCNativeWrappers in a way that causes the script to be executed when a chrome action is performed.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/31/2018
This vulnerability represents a sophisticated privilege escalation flaw in Mozilla Firefox and SeaMonkey web browsers that leverages the manipulation of XPCNativeWrappers to execute arbitrary javascript code with elevated user privileges. The issue stems from improper handling of script execution contexts within the browser's security model, specifically when the Script object attempts to modify XPCNativeWrappers during chrome actions. This creates a dangerous condition where attacker-controlled javascript can be injected into privileged execution contexts, bypassing standard security boundaries that should prevent untrusted code from running with elevated privileges. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows remote attackers to execute malicious javascript code that operates with the same privileges as the browser's chrome code, effectively granting them access to sensitive system resources and user data.
The technical implementation of this exploit involves manipulating the XPCNativeWrappers mechanism which serves as a bridge between javascript and native code within the browser environment. When the Script object attempts to modify these wrappers during chrome actions, the browser's security model fails to properly validate or sanitize the modifications, creating a scenario where attacker-controlled code can be executed in privileged contexts. This flaw operates at the intersection of several security concepts including privilege separation, context isolation, and sandboxing mechanisms that are fundamental to modern browser security architectures. The vulnerability specifically affects versions prior to Firefox 2.0.0.8 and SeaMonkey 1.1.5, indicating that it was a targeted issue in the browser's security implementation that was subsequently addressed through code modifications to the XPCNativeWrappers handling logic.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it enables remote code execution with user privileges, potentially allowing attackers to perform actions such as reading and modifying sensitive data, accessing local files, intercepting user credentials, and executing malicious payloads on compromised systems. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to perform man-in-the-middle attacks, steal session cookies, access user accounts, and potentially escalate privileges further if the user has administrative rights. The remote nature of this exploit means that attackers can compromise systems without requiring local access or physical presence, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users may browse untrusted websites. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and CWE-284 for improper access control, representing a classic case of privilege escalation through improper context handling.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve immediate patching of affected browser versions to the patched releases that address the XPCNativeWrappers modification handling. Organizations should implement comprehensive browser update policies to ensure all systems are running patched versions, particularly in enterprise environments where multiple browser installations may exist. Network administrators should consider implementing web filtering solutions and content security policies to limit exposure to potentially malicious websites. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper sandboxing and privilege separation mechanisms in browser security architectures, highlighting the need for continuous security auditing of complex interaction patterns between different code execution contexts. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of keeping browsers updated with the latest security patches, as this vulnerability could be exploited through drive-by downloads or malicious web content.