CVE-2014-1515 in Firefox
Summary
by MITRE
Mozilla Firefox before 28.0.1 on Android processes a file: URL by copying a local file onto the SD card, which allows attackers to obtain sensitive information from the Firefox profile directory via a crafted application.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/09/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-1515 represents a critical security flaw in Mozilla Firefox versions prior to 28.0.1 on Android platforms. This issue stems from improper handling of file: URLs within the mobile browser's security model, creating a pathway for malicious actors to access sensitive data stored in the Firefox profile directory. The vulnerability specifically affects Android devices where Firefox operates under the constraints of the mobile operating system's file permissions and storage architecture.
The technical flaw manifests when Firefox processes a crafted file: URL that triggers an unsafe file copy operation to the SD card storage location. This behavior occurs because the browser fails to properly validate or sanitize the source file paths before executing the copy operation. The implementation does not adequately restrict access to sensitive profile directories, allowing attackers to craft malicious applications or web content that can leverage this functionality to extract confidential information. The vulnerability operates under CWE-22 which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal attacks. This flaw essentially allows an attacker to bypass normal file access controls and gain unauthorized access to files that should remain protected within the browser's profile storage.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant for Android users of affected Firefox versions, as it enables attackers to obtain sensitive information that may include browsing history, saved passwords, cookies, cache data, and other profile-specific information stored in the Firefox directory structure. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires only a malicious application or web page to exploit the vulnerability, making it accessible to threat actors with minimal technical expertise. The exposure of Firefox profile data creates potential for credential theft, session hijacking, and comprehensive user activity tracking, as the profile directory typically contains all the user's browsing artifacts and sensitive session data.
The security implications extend beyond simple information disclosure, as this vulnerability can be leveraged as a stepping stone for more sophisticated attacks. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can potentially reconstruct user browsing patterns, access saved login credentials, and gather intelligence about the user's online activities. This information can then be used for targeted phishing attacks, social engineering campaigns, or to facilitate further compromise of the user's device or online accounts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1056.001 which covers credential harvesting through the collection of stored credentials, and T1074.001 which involves data staging through the collection of files from local systems. Organizations and users should consider this vulnerability as part of a broader attack surface that requires comprehensive mobile security measures.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-1515 primarily involve updating to Firefox version 28.0.1 or later, which includes patches that properly validate file paths and prevent unauthorized copying of sensitive profile files to external storage. System administrators and security professionals should also implement mobile device management policies that restrict the installation of untrusted applications and monitor for suspicious file access patterns. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of downloading applications from untrusted sources and the importance of keeping their browser software updated. The fix implemented by Mozilla addresses the root cause by strengthening the validation of file: URL processing and implementing proper access controls that prevent copying of profile directory contents to external storage locations. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual file copy operations to SD card locations and analysis of application behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts.