CVE-2024-4775 in Firefox
Summary
by MITRE • 05/14/2024
An iterator stop condition was missing when handling WASM code in the built-in profiler, potentially leading to invalid memory access and undefined behavior. *Note:* This issue only affects the application when the profiler is running. This vulnerability affects Firefox < 126.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/02/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2024-4775 represents a critical memory safety issue within Firefox's WebAssembly profiling functionality. This flaw manifests as a missing iterator stop condition during the processing of WASM code within the built-in profiler component, creating a scenario where memory access operations can extend beyond valid boundaries. The issue specifically targets Firefox versions prior to 126, making unpatched installations particularly susceptible to exploitation. The root cause falls under the category of improper iteration control, which can be categorized as CWE-691, indicating insufficient control flow in iterative processes. When the profiler encounters WASM code, the absence of proper termination conditions for iteration loops can lead to memory corruption that may result in arbitrary code execution or system instability.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it can enable attackers to manipulate the profiler's behavior to achieve unauthorized access patterns. Since this issue only activates when the profiler is actively running, it presents a targeted attack surface that requires the profiling functionality to be enabled. The potential for undefined behavior in this context aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which involves the use of scripting languages, as WASM profiling operates within the browser's scripting environment. This vulnerability represents a classic example of how seemingly benign profiling tools can become attack vectors when proper boundary checks are omitted, particularly in environments where dynamic code execution occurs.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-4775 primarily focus on immediate version updates to Firefox 126 or later, which contain the necessary patches to address the iterator stop condition issue. Organizations should also consider disabling profiling features when not actively required, particularly in production environments where the risk of exploitation is higher. The fix implemented in Firefox 126 involves correcting the iteration logic within the WASM code handling routines to ensure proper termination conditions are enforced. Security teams should monitor for any potential exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability, as the nature of memory corruption bugs can sometimes be leveraged for more sophisticated attacks. Additionally, implementing network-level monitoring for unusual profiling activity patterns may help detect potential exploitation attempts before they can cause significant damage. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of rigorous code review processes for profiling and debugging tools, as these components often operate with elevated privileges and can become entry points for attackers seeking to compromise system integrity.