CVE-2020-12414 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2020-12414 affecting Firefox for iOS < 27. Understand the impact, affected systems, exploitation, and mitigation steps to secure your browsing data.
Firefox for iOS version less than 27 is affected by a vulnerability related to IndexedDB not being cleared when leaving private browsing mode.
Understanding CVE-2020-12414
This CVE identifies a security issue in Firefox for iOS that allows IndexedDB to persist in private browsing mode, potentially compromising user privacy.
What is CVE-2020-12414?
The vulnerability arises from incorrect usage of the API for WKWebViewConfiguration, requiring the deletion of the private instance of the object when exiting private mode in Firefox for iOS.
The Impact of CVE-2020-12414
The vulnerability allows for the persistence of IndexedDB data in private browsing mode, potentially exposing sensitive information to unauthorized access.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-12414
Firefox for iOS version less than 27 is susceptible to the following:
Vulnerability Description
- IndexedDB is not cleared when leaving private browsing mode
- Incorrect usage of WKWebViewConfiguration API
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Firefox for iOS
- Vendor: Mozilla
- Versions Affected: < 27
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by malicious actors to access and retrieve IndexedDB data left behind in private browsing mode.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2020-12414, consider the following steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Firefox for iOS to version 27 or higher
- Clear browsing data regularly, especially when exiting private mode
Long-Term Security Practices
- Educate users on the importance of clearing browsing data
- Implement regular security updates and patches for Firefox for iOS
- Monitor and restrict access to IndexedDB storage
Patching and Updates
- Apply the latest patches and updates provided by Mozilla for Firefox for iOS to mitigate the vulnerability.