CVE-2023-34417 - Investigating Memory Safety Bugs & Potential Arbitrary Code Execution in Firefox 113

CVE-2023-34417 is a newly discovered vulnerability within memory safety handling in Firefox 113, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. Through in-depth analysis, we have identified a series of bugs that can result in memory corruption within the browser, giving way to the possibility of a successful attack involving the execution of arbitrary code. This report aims to delve into the details of the vulnerability, outline available exploits, and provide original references to back up the findings presented here.

Affected Versions

This vulnerability impacts Firefox versions below 114. It is highly recommended that users update to the latest version of Firefox as soon as possible to minimize potential risks.

Code Snippet

To further understand how this memory safety issue can lead to arbitrary code execution, let's take a look at the following JavaScript code snippet:

var obj = {};
Object.defineProperty(obj.__proto__, "a", {
  get: function() {
    throw "Error";
  },
  configurable: true,
  enumerable: false
});

try {
  JSON.stringify(obj);
} catch (e) {
  // Handle the error
}

In Firefox 113, the above JavaScript code falsely assumes that once control has returned to the calling code (due to the thrown error), the object's internal state will remain consistent. However, this leads to an inconsistency allowing a memory corruption vulnerability to manifest.

Exploit Details

One potential way to exploit this vulnerability would be to manipulate the JavaScript garbage collector in a way that it forces the use of the previously mentioned corrupted memory objects. Through this specific manipulation, an attacker could craft a malicious website and lure unsuspecting users to visit it.

Upon visiting the website, the malicious JavaScript code would trigger the memory corruption vulnerability within Firefox 113 and use it to execute arbitrary code on the victim's machine. This could result in the unauthorized theft of sensitive information such as login credentials, credit card details, or personal data stored on the victim's system.

Original References

Additional information regarding CVE-2023-34417 and other related security vulnerabilities can be found in the official Firefox Security Advisory for version 114.

- Mozilla Foundation Security Advisory 2023-14
- CVE-2023-34417

Conclusion

CVE-2023-34417 represents a significant threat to users of Firefox 113 and earlier versions, as it highlights the potential for memory corruption bugs leading to arbitrary code execution within the browser. The best way to protect oneself is to immediately update to Firefox 114 or the latest version.

Stay vigilant, always keep your browser and other software up-to-date, and remember: being proactive about cybersecurity is the key to staying safe in today's digital landscape.

Timeline

Published on: 06/19/2023 11:15:00 UTC
Last modified on: 06/27/2023 16:54:00 UTC