CVE-2018-12373 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2018-12373 affecting Thunderbird versions prior to 52.9. Discover how plaintext exposure from decrypted S/MIME parts can occur and find mitigation strategies.
CVE-2018-12373 was published on October 18, 2018, and affects Thunderbird versions prior to 52.9. The vulnerability allows plaintext exposure from decrypted S/MIME parts when CSS or plaintext HTML tags are included in HTML replies or forwards.
Understanding CVE-2018-12373
This CVE entry highlights a security issue in Thunderbird that could lead to the leakage of plaintext from decrypted S/MIME parts.
What is CVE-2018-12373?
The vulnerability in Thunderbird versions before 52.9 arises from the inclusion of CSS or plaintext HTML tags in HTML replies or forwards, potentially exposing plaintext from decrypted S/MIME parts.
The Impact of CVE-2018-12373
The vulnerability could result in the exposure of sensitive plaintext information contained in decrypted S/MIME parts, posing a risk to user privacy and data security.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-12373
CVE-2018-12373 involves the following technical aspects:
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows plaintext from decrypted S/MIME parts to be exposed when CSS or plaintext HTML tags are present in HTML replies or forwards.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Thunderbird
- Vendor: Mozilla
- Versions Affected: < 52.9
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by including CSS or plaintext HTML tags in HTML replies or forwards, leading to the exposure of plaintext from decrypted S/MIME parts.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2018-12373, consider the following mitigation strategies:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Thunderbird to version 52.9 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Avoid opening HTML emails from untrusted or unknown sources.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update Thunderbird and other software to the latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities.
- Educate users on safe email practices to minimize the risk of exploitation.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security advisories from Mozilla and apply recommended patches promptly to enhance system security.