CVE-2017-5438 : Security Advisory and Response

A use-after-free vulnerability during XSLT processing in Mozilla Thunderbird, Firefox ESR, and Firefox versions prior to specified versions.

Understanding CVE-2017-5438

A vulnerability impacting Mozilla Thunderbird, Firefox ESR, and Firefox versions that could lead to a potentially exploitable crash.

What is CVE-2017-5438?

This CVE involves a use-after-free vulnerability during XSLT processing, where a freed handler holds the result handler, potentially causing a crash. It affects Thunderbird versions earlier than 52.1, Firefox ESR versions earlier than 45.9 and 52.1, and Firefox versions earlier than 53.

The Impact of CVE-2017-5438

The vulnerability could be exploited to cause a crash, potentially leading to further security issues in affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-5438

Details about the vulnerability and affected systems.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from a use-after-free issue during XSLT processing, where the freed handler retains the result handler, creating a potential crash scenario.

Affected Systems and Versions

Thunderbird versions prior to 52.1
Firefox ESR versions prior to 45.9 and 52.1
Firefox versions prior to 53

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by manipulating XSLT processing to trigger the use-after-free condition, potentially leading to a crash.

Mitigation and Prevention

Ways to address and prevent the CVE-2017-5438 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Thunderbird to version 52.1 or newer
Update Firefox ESR to version 45.9 or 52.1 or newer
Update Firefox to version 53 or newer

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software to the latest versions
Implement secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by Mozilla to address the vulnerability