CVE-2017-5395 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2017-5395, a vulnerability in Firefox for Android allowing deceptive websites to spoof location bars. Find mitigation steps and long-term security practices here.
A potential security risk arises when deceptive websites manipulate the location bar on a new page that loads after scrolling the existing location bar out of view, if the timing of page navigations is precisely coordinated. This vulnerability is specific to Firefox for Android, impacting versions prior to 51.
Understanding CVE-2017-5395
This CVE involves Android location bar spoofing during scrolling.
What is CVE-2017-5395?
- Malicious sites can display a spoofed location bar on a subsequently loaded page when the existing location bar on the new page is scrolled out of view if navigations between pages can be timed correctly.
- This vulnerability affects Firefox for Android versions prior to 51.
The Impact of CVE-2017-5395
- The vulnerability allows for potential location bar spoofing on Firefox for Android, posing a security risk to users.
- Other operating systems are not affected by this issue.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-5395
This section provides technical details about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
- Deceptive websites can manipulate the location bar on a new page after scrolling the existing location bar out of view, leading to potential spoofing.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Product: Not applicable
- Affected Vendor: Not applicable
- Affected Versions: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
- The vulnerability is exploited by precisely coordinating the timing of page navigations to display a spoofed location bar.
Mitigation and Prevention
It is crucial to take immediate steps to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2017-5395.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Firefox for Android to version 51 or above to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Exercise caution when browsing potentially deceptive websites.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update your browser and operating system to the latest versions.
- Be cautious while interacting with unfamiliar or suspicious websites.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security advisories from Mozilla and apply patches promptly to address known vulnerabilities.