CVE-2012-3969 in Firefox
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in the nsSVGFEMorphologyElement::Filter function in Mozilla Firefox before 15.0, Firefox ESR 10.x before 10.0.7, Thunderbird before 15.0, Thunderbird ESR 10.x before 10.0.7, and SeaMonkey before 2.12 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted SVG filter that triggers an incorrect sum calculation, leading to a heap-based buffer overflow.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/31/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-3969 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within the SVG filter processing functionality of Mozilla Firefox and related applications. This issue affects versions prior to Firefox 15.0, Firefox ESR 10.x before 10.0.7, Thunderbird before 15.0, Thunderbird ESR 10.x before 10.0.7, and SeaMonkey before 2.12. The flaw specifically resides in the nsSVGFEMorphologyElement::Filter function which handles the processing of SVG filter elements, particularly those involving morphological operations that manipulate pixel data within graphical contexts.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from an improper handling of integer arithmetic within the SVG filter processing pipeline. When maliciously crafted SVG content contains filter elements that trigger the nsSVGFEMorphologyElement::Filter function, the application performs calculations that exceed the maximum representable value for signed integers. This overflow condition occurs during the computation of buffer sizes or array indices used in heap memory allocation operations, ultimately resulting in a heap-based buffer overflow scenario. The flaw manifests when the system attempts to allocate memory based on an incorrect sum calculation that has overflowed beyond the intended bounds.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it provides remote attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The heap-based buffer overflow creates conditions where attackers can manipulate memory layout and potentially overwrite critical program structures or function pointers. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-190 category of Integer Overflow or Wraparound, which is classified as a high-risk weakness in software security. The attack vector requires only the delivery of malicious SVG content through web pages or email attachments, making it particularly dangerous for widespread exploitation.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter execution, as successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution that might be leveraged for further compromise. The vulnerability's nature makes it particularly suitable for advanced persistent threat campaigns where attackers seek to establish persistent access through browser-based attacks. Organizations running affected versions of these applications face significant risk as the flaw can be triggered through standard web browsing activities without requiring user interaction beyond visiting malicious websites. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper integer overflow protection in graphics processing libraries and the potential for such flaws to create pathways for remote code execution in widely deployed software applications.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected software versions to the latest releases that contain the necessary fixes. System administrators should prioritize updating Firefox, Thunderbird, and SeaMonkey installations to versions that address this specific integer overflow condition. Additional protective measures include implementing content filtering solutions that can detect and block malicious SVG content, enabling sandboxing features where available, and establishing network-based security controls to monitor for suspicious SVG file transfers. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of regular security updates and the need for comprehensive security testing of graphics processing components within web browsers and email clients.