CVE-2020-26959 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2020-26959, a use-after-free vulnerability affecting Firefox, Firefox ESR, and Thunderbird versions below specified ones. Find mitigation steps and updates here.
A use-after-free vulnerability affecting Firefox, Firefox ESR, and Thunderbird.
Understanding CVE-2020-26959
What is CVE-2020-26959?
This vulnerability occurs during browser shutdown, leading to memory corruption and potentially exploitable crashes in Firefox, Firefox ESR, and Thunderbird versions below specified ones.
The Impact of CVE-2020-26959
The vulnerability could result in a use-after-free scenario, memory corruption, and potentially exploitable crashes.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-26959
Vulnerability Description
During browser shutdown, reference decrementing on a freed object can trigger a use-after-free vulnerability.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Firefox < 83
- Firefox ESR < 78.5
- Thunderbird < 78.5
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability arises from improper handling of references during browser shutdown, leading to memory corruption.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Firefox, Firefox ESR, and Thunderbird to versions equal to or above the fixed versions.
- Monitor vendor security advisories for patches and updates.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update browsers and email clients to the latest versions.
- Implement secure coding practices to prevent memory corruption vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Apply security patches provided by Mozilla for Firefox, Firefox ESR, and Thunderbird to address the vulnerability.