CVE-2018-12377 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2018-12377, a use-after-free vulnerability impacting Firefox, Firefox ESR, and Thunderbird versions earlier than specified. Find mitigation steps and prevention measures here.
This vulnerability, known as use-after-free, can be triggered when refresh driver timers are refreshed under certain conditions during shutdown, despite the timer being deleted while still in use. It impacts Firefox versions earlier than 62, Firefox ESR versions earlier than 60.2, and Thunderbird versions earlier than 60.2.1.
Understanding CVE-2018-12377
This CVE-2018-12377 vulnerability is a use-after-free vulnerability that affects Mozilla products.
What is CVE-2018-12377?
A use-after-free vulnerability occurs when refresh driver timers are refreshed during shutdown, leading to a potentially exploitable crash.
The Impact of CVE-2018-12377
The vulnerability can result in a crash that could be exploited by attackers, affecting the stability and security of the impacted software.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-12377
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises when refresh driver timers are refreshed during shutdown, causing a use-after-free scenario that can lead to a crash.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Firefox versions earlier than 62
- Firefox ESR versions earlier than 60.2
- Thunderbird versions earlier than 60.2.1
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by triggering refresh driver timers under specific conditions during shutdown, despite the timer being deleted while still in use.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2018-12377, follow these mitigation strategies:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update affected software to versions 62 (or later) for Firefox, 60.2 (or later) for Firefox ESR, and 60.2.1 (or later) for Thunderbird.
- Monitor vendor advisories and apply patches promptly.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software to the latest versions to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
- Implement security best practices to enhance overall system security.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security updates and apply patches as soon as they are available.