CVE-2017-5433 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2017-5433, a use-after-free vulnerability in SMIL animation functions impacting Thunderbird, Firefox ESR, and Firefox versions. Find out how to mitigate and prevent potential exploits.
A use-after-free vulnerability in SMIL animation functions affects Thunderbird, Firefox ESR, and Firefox versions, potentially leading to exploitable crashes.
Understanding CVE-2017-5433
What is CVE-2017-5433?
The vulnerability arises from premature removal of pointers to animation elements, causing a use-after-free issue in SMIL animation functions.
The Impact of CVE-2017-5433
The vulnerability can result in a crash that may be exploited by attackers, affecting Thunderbird, Firefox ESR, and Firefox versions.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-5433
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability occurs due to the premature removal of pointers to animation elements, leading to a use-after-free issue in SMIL animation functions.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Thunderbird versions prior to 52.1
- Firefox ESR versions prior to 45.9 and 52.1
- Firefox versions prior to 53
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by causing a crash through the manipulation of SMIL animation functions.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Thunderbird to version 52.1 or newer
- Update Firefox ESR to version 45.9 or 52.1 or newer
- Update Firefox to version 53 or newer
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software to the latest versions
- Implement security best practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities
Patching and Updates
Apply patches provided by Mozilla to address the use-after-free vulnerability in SMIL animation functions.