CVE-2017-5451 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A security vulnerability affecting Thunderbird, Firefox ESR, and Firefox versions prior to specified versions.

Understanding CVE-2017-5451

A method for deceiving the address bar has been identified, impacting Thunderbird, Firefox ESR, and Firefox.

What is CVE-2017-5451?

This vulnerability involves manipulating user interaction on the address bar using the "onblur" event to display a different website than the one actually loaded.

The Impact of CVE-2017-5451

The security flaw affects Thunderbird versions earlier than 52.1, Firefox ESR versions earlier than 52.1, and Firefox versions earlier than 53.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-5451

A vulnerability related to address bar spoofing using the "onblur" event.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows scripts to manipulate the displayed text in the address bar, showing a different website than the one loaded.

Affected Systems and Versions

Thunderbird versions less than 52.1
Firefox ESR versions less than 52.1
Firefox versions less than 53

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited by utilizing the "onblur" event to deceive users about the website loaded in the address bar.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the CVE-2017-5451 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Thunderbird, Firefox ESR, and Firefox to versions 52.1 and above.
Be cautious while interacting with the address bar to avoid falling victim to spoofing.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update browsers and email clients to the latest versions.
Educate users about address bar spoofing and its risks.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Mozilla to fix the vulnerability.