CVE-2014-1528 in Firefox
Summary
by MITRE
The sse2_composite_src_x888_8888 function in Pixman, as used in Cairo in Mozilla Firefox 28.0 and SeaMonkey 2.25 on Windows, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (out-of-bounds write and application crash) by painting on a CANVAS element.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/12/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-1528 represents a critical security flaw within the Pixman graphics library component that is integral to the Cairo graphics rendering system used by Mozilla Firefox and SeaMonkey browsers. This issue manifests specifically within the sse2_composite_src_x888_8888 function, which handles pixel composition operations for 32-bit color formats. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and boundary checking during graphics rendering operations, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system through web-based attacks. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through standard web page content, making it accessible to attackers without requiring specialized privileges or direct system access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from an out-of-bounds write condition that occurs when the sse2_composite_src_x888_8888 function processes pixel data for CANVAS element rendering. When a web page contains maliciously crafted graphics data, the function fails to properly validate the dimensions and memory boundaries of the pixel operations, leading to memory corruption. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and more specifically aligns with CWE-787, representing out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities. The attack vector leverages the browser's graphics processing capabilities, where the malicious code can be embedded within HTML content and executed when the browser renders the CANVAS element, making it particularly effective for cross-site scripting and remote code execution scenarios.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to encompass full system compromise potential. When exploited successfully, the out-of-bounds write can overwrite critical memory locations, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected browser process. This capability makes it a prime target for advanced persistent threat actors seeking to establish footholds within target environments. The vulnerability affects specific versions of Mozilla Firefox and SeaMonkey on Windows platforms, but the underlying issue in the Pixman library could potentially impact other software systems utilizing the same graphics rendering components. The exploitation requires only a malicious web page, making it highly dangerous for end users who may inadvertently visit compromised websites or be targeted through phishing campaigns.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-1528 primarily focus on immediate software updates and patches provided by the affected vendors. Mozilla released security updates for Firefox 28.0 and SeaMonkey 2.25 that address the underlying buffer overflow condition in the Pixman library. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all affected systems receive the necessary updates promptly. Additional defensive measures include implementing web content filtering solutions that can detect and block suspicious CANVAS element usage, configuring browser security settings to limit graphics rendering capabilities, and employing network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification under the ATT&CK framework as a code injection technique (T1059) and its potential for privilege escalation (T1068) highlights the need for layered security approaches that combine software updates with network monitoring and user education initiatives to prevent successful exploitation attempts.