CVE-2017-5461 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-5461, a vulnerability in Mozilla Network Security Services allowing remote attackers to initiate denial of service attacks. Find out how to mitigate this security risk.
Remote attackers can exploit a flaw in Mozilla Network Security Services (NSS) versions prior to 3.21.4, 3.22.x through 3.28.x before 3.28.4, 3.29.x before 3.29.5, and 3.30.x before 3.30.1 to initiate a denial of service attack or potentially cause other unspecified consequences. These attacks are made possible by taking advantage of incorrect base64 operations.
Understanding CVE-2017-5461
This CVE involves a vulnerability in Mozilla Network Security Services (NSS) that allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service or other impacts through incorrect base64 operations.
What is CVE-2017-5461?
CVE-2017-5461 is a security vulnerability in Mozilla Network Security Services (NSS) that enables remote attackers to exploit incorrect base64 operations, leading to denial of service attacks or other potential consequences.
The Impact of CVE-2017-5461
The vulnerability can be exploited by remote attackers to trigger a denial of service attack or potentially cause other unspecified impacts by leveraging incorrect base64 operations.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-5461
Mozilla Network Security Services (NSS) versions prior to 3.21.4, 3.22.x through 3.28.x before 3.28.4, 3.29.x before 3.29.5, and 3.30.x before 3.30.1 are affected by this vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (out-of-bounds write) or potentially have other unspecified impacts by leveraging incorrect base64 operations.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Thunderbird versions less than 52.1
- Firefox ESR versions less than 45.9 and 52.1
- Firefox versions less than 53
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers exploit incorrect base64 operations in Mozilla Network Security Services (NSS) to trigger denial of service attacks or other potential consequences.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2017-5461, follow these steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Mozilla Network Security Services (NSS) to versions 3.21.4, 3.28.4, 3.29.5, or 3.30.1
- Apply patches provided by Mozilla
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and security patches
- Implement secure coding practices
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security advisories from Mozilla
- Monitor for updates and apply patches promptly