CVE-2016-2810 in Firefox
Summary
by MITRE
Mozilla Firefox before 46.0 on Android before 5.0 allows attackers to bypass intended Signature access requirements via a crafted application that leverages content-provider permissions, as demonstrated by reading the browser history or a saved password.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/27/2022
This vulnerability exists in Mozilla Firefox versions prior to 46.0 on Android platforms before version 5.0, representing a critical security flaw that undermines the intended access controls for signature-protected resources. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of content provider permissions within the Android operating system, allowing malicious applications to exploit weak access controls and gain unauthorized access to sensitive browser data. The flaw specifically targets the signature verification mechanisms that should prevent unauthorized applications from accessing protected browser components, creating a pathway for attackers to bypass these security controls through crafted malicious applications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the Android content provider permission model where Firefox fails to properly validate the signing certificates of applications attempting to access browser-protected resources. When an attacker crafts a malicious application with appropriate content provider permissions, the vulnerable Firefox implementation does not adequately verify the application's signature or authorization level, allowing the malicious app to access browser history and saved passwords. This represents a failure in the principle of least privilege and demonstrates a weakness in the application sandboxing mechanisms that should isolate browser data from other applications. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the system level where applications should be strictly separated, enabling attackers to access sensitive user data that should remain protected by signature verification mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with comprehensive access to user browsing activities and authentication credentials stored within the browser. Attackers can leverage this flaw to construct detailed profiles of user behavior, access sensitive communications, and potentially escalate their privileges within the affected system. The vulnerability affects users who have Firefox installed on Android devices running versions prior to 5.0, creating a widespread attack surface across numerous devices and user bases. The exploitation requires only a malicious application with appropriate permissions, making it particularly dangerous as it can be deployed through various attack vectors including malicious app downloads, phishing campaigns, or compromised app stores.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control issues, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1213, focusing on data from information repositories. The flaw represents a failure in the Android security model's implementation of signature verification, where the browser component does not properly enforce the security boundaries established by the operating system. Organizations should consider this vulnerability as part of their broader mobile security posture assessment, particularly in environments where Firefox is used on Android devices. The recommended mitigation strategy involves immediate updating of Firefox to version 46.0 or later, along with ensuring that affected Android devices are updated to version 5.0 or higher to benefit from improved permission handling and signature verification mechanisms. Additionally, users should exercise caution when installing applications and regularly review application permissions to prevent unauthorized access to browser data.