CVE-2008-2419 in Firefox
Summary
by MITRE
Mozilla Firefox 2.0.0.14 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (heap corruption and application crash) or possibly execute arbitrary code by triggering an error condition during certain Iframe operations between a JSframe write and a JSframe close, as demonstrated by an error in loading an empty Java applet defined by a src="javascript:" sequence.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/12/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2419 represents a critical heap corruption issue affecting Mozilla Firefox version 2.0.0.14, with implications for both denial of service and potential arbitrary code execution. This flaw manifests during specific interactions between iframe operations and javascript frame handling, creating a dangerous condition that can be exploited remotely by attackers. The vulnerability specifically occurs when an error condition is triggered during Iframe operations involving a JSframe write followed by a JSframe close sequence, making it particularly concerning for web browser security.
The technical mechanism underlying this vulnerability involves heap corruption that results from improper memory management during iframe processing operations. When Firefox encounters a javascript: protocol URL within an iframe context, particularly one that references an empty java applet, the browser's handling of these operations creates a scenario where memory corruption can occur in the heap memory space. This heap corruption directly leads to application crashes and can potentially be leveraged to execute arbitrary code through carefully crafted attack vectors that exploit the memory corruption to gain control over the browser process. The flaw demonstrates a classic memory safety issue that aligns with CWE-122, which addresses heap-based buffer overflow conditions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple application instability to potentially enable remote code execution in targeted environments. Attackers can leverage this weakness by constructing malicious web pages that trigger the specific iframe sequence involving javascript: URLs and empty java applet references. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that users can be compromised simply by visiting malicious websites without requiring any special interaction beyond normal browsing. This makes it particularly dangerous for widespread exploitation and represents a significant risk to users who may encounter such malicious content while browsing the web. The attack surface is broad given that iframe operations and javascript: protocol handling are common web development practices.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize immediate patching of affected Firefox installations to version 2.0.0.15 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the heap corruption issue. Organizations should implement comprehensive browser security policies that include regular security updates and patch management procedures to prevent exploitation of such vulnerabilities. Additional protective measures include implementing content security policies that restrict the use of javascript: protocol URLs, deploying web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious iframe operations, and educating users about the risks of visiting untrusted websites. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving memory corruption and privilege escalation, making it particularly concerning for advanced persistent threat actors who may leverage such flaws for initial access or lateral movement within compromised systems. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date browser security patches and implementing layered defense mechanisms to protect against sophisticated exploitation attempts.