CVE-2019-11730 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2019-11730, a security flaw in Mozilla Firefox ESR, Firefox, and Thunderbird allowing unauthorized access to local files. Find mitigation steps and update information here.
A security flaw in Firefox ESR, Firefox, and Thunderbird allows malicious HTML files to access other files in the same directory, potentially compromising user data.
Understanding CVE-2019-11730
This CVE highlights a vulnerability in Mozilla products that can lead to unauthorized access to local files.
What is CVE-2019-11730?
The vulnerability arises when a user opens a locally saved HTML file, enabling it to access other files in the same directory or sub-directories by guessing or knowing their names. This flaw can be exploited to retrieve and potentially upload file contents to a server.
The Impact of CVE-2019-11730
The vulnerability allows attackers to read attachments received by a victim from other correspondents when a malicious HTML attachment is opened in Firefox.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-11730
This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw allows files with file: URIs to access other files in the same directory or sub-directories, potentially leading to data leakage.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Firefox ESR versions earlier than 60.8
- Firefox versions earlier than 68
- Thunderbird versions earlier than 60.8
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending a malicious HTML attachment to a user, who, upon opening it in Firefox, unknowingly exposes their attachments to the attacker.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2019-11730 is crucial to prevent data breaches and unauthorized access.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update affected Mozilla products to versions 60.8 (Firefox ESR) and 68 (Firefox) or newer.
- Avoid opening HTML attachments from untrusted sources.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software to the latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities.
- Educate users on safe browsing practices and the risks associated with opening unknown attachments.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security updates provided by Mozilla to address CVE-2019-11730.