CVE-2009-2471 in Firefox
Summary
by MITRE
The setTimeout function in Mozilla Firefox before 3.0.12 does not properly preserve object wrapping, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript with chrome privileges via a crafted call, related to XPCNativeWrapper.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/12/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-2471 represents a critical security flaw in Mozilla Firefox versions prior to 3.0.12 that stems from improper handling of object wrapping within the setTimeout function. This issue specifically affects the XPCNativeWrapper mechanism, which is responsible for managing communication between JavaScript and native code components in the browser's architecture. The flaw occurs when the setTimeout function fails to maintain proper object wrapping semantics, creating a pathway for malicious code execution with elevated privileges.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the insufficient validation and preservation of object wrapping contexts when JavaScript code is scheduled for delayed execution. XPCNativeWrapper serves as a bridge between JavaScript and the underlying native XPCOM components, and when setTimeout does not properly maintain these wrappers, it creates opportunities for privilege escalation attacks. Attackers can craft malicious JavaScript code that exploits this behavior to execute arbitrary commands with chrome privileges, which represent the highest level of permissions within the browser environment.
This vulnerability has significant operational impact as it allows remote attackers to bypass the browser's security model and execute malicious code with the same privileges as the browser itself. The chrome privileges enable access to sensitive system resources, file operations, and potentially full system control. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it can be delivered through standard web pages, making it accessible to attackers without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website. This makes the vulnerability particularly effective for drive-by attacks and widespread exploitation.
The security implications extend beyond simple privilege escalation as this flaw demonstrates weaknesses in Firefox's sandboxing and object model implementation. Organizations using affected Firefox versions face substantial risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-264, which addresses permissions, privileges, and access control issues, and relates to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for JavaScript execution. Remediation requires immediate patching of Firefox to version 3.0.12 or later, along with implementation of network-based protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems to prevent exploitation attempts.
Mitigation strategies should include comprehensive browser updates across all systems, implementation of security policies that restrict JavaScript execution in sensitive contexts, and deployment of intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security measures such as sandboxing, privilege separation, and regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other browser components. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software and the potential consequences of failing to address security flaws in browser implementations.