CVE-2017-7800 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2017-7800, a use-after-free vulnerability in WebSockets impacting Thunderbird, Firefox ESR, and Firefox versions prior to specified versions. Find mitigation steps and preventive measures here.
A use-after-free vulnerability in WebSockets can lead to exploitable crashes in Thunderbird, Firefox ESR, and Firefox.
Understanding CVE-2017-7800
What is CVE-2017-7800?
When the object holding a connection is freed before disconnection completes, a use-after-free vulnerability arises in WebSockets, potentially causing exploitable crashes in Thunderbird, Firefox ESR, and Firefox.
The Impact of CVE-2017-7800
This vulnerability affects Thunderbird versions prior to 52.3, Firefox ESR versions prior to 52.3, and Firefox versions prior to 55.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-7800
Vulnerability Description
A use-after-free vulnerability occurs in WebSockets when the connection-holding object is prematurely freed, leading to exploitable crashes.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Thunderbird versions prior to 52.3
- Firefox ESR versions prior to 52.3
- Firefox versions prior to 55
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability is exploited by freeing the object holding the connection before the disconnection process completes.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Thunderbird, Firefox ESR, and Firefox to versions 52.3 and 55, respectively.
- Monitor vendor advisories for patches and security updates.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software to the latest versions.
- Implement secure coding practices to prevent use-after-free vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches provided by Mozilla and other relevant vendors to address the vulnerability.