CVE-2017-7759 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Android intent URLs on Firefox for Android allow navigation from HTTP or HTTPS URLs to local 'file:' URLs, breaching the same-origin policy. This impacts Firefox versions before 54.

Understanding CVE-2017-7759

Android intent URLs can lead to unauthorized access to local data through Firefox for Android, affecting versions prior to 54.

What is CVE-2017-7759?

The vulnerability in Firefox for Android enables the transition from HTTP or HTTPS URLs to local 'file:' URLs, permitting access to local data in violation of the same-origin policy.

The Impact of CVE-2017-7759

Only Firefox for Android is vulnerable to this attack
Other operating systems remain unaffected

Technical Details of CVE-2017-7759

Android intent URLs can be exploited to navigate to local file system locations, compromising data security.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows the reading of local data by redirecting from HTTP or HTTPS URLs to local 'file:' URLs, breaching the same-origin policy.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Firefox
Vendor: Mozilla
Versions Affected: < 54

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited by utilizing Android intent URLs to redirect to local 'file:' URLs, enabling unauthorized access to local data.

Mitigation and Prevention

Implement immediate steps and long-term security practices to mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2017-7759.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Firefox for Android to version 54 or above
Avoid clicking on suspicious links or visiting untrusted websites
Monitor for any unusual activities on the device

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications
Employ security tools to detect and prevent unauthorized access

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by Mozilla to address the vulnerability