CVE-2016-1978: Use After Free

Published Mar 13, 2016
·
Updated

Use-after-free vulnerability in the ssl3HandleECDHServerKeyExchange function in Mozilla Network Security Services (NSS) before 3.21, as used in Mozilla Firefox before 44.0, allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service or possibly have unspecified other impact by making an SSL (1) DHE or (2) ECDHE handshake at a time of high memory consumption.

Affected Software

2 affected components
Mozilla Firefox<=43.0.4
mozilla Network Security Services<=3.20.1

Event History

Mar 13, 2016
CVE Published
via MITRE·06:00 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·06:00 PM
Description
Free Weekly Intel

Don't miss critical vulnerabilities

Join thousands of security professionals who receive our weekly digest of trending CVEs, zero-days, and exploited vulnerabilities.

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of CVE-2016-1978?

CVE-2016-1978 is classified as a high severity vulnerability due to its potential for causing denial of service and other unspecified impacts.

2

How do I fix CVE-2016-1978?

To fix CVE-2016-1978, update Mozilla Firefox to version 44.0 or later, or Mozilla NSS to version 3.21 or later.

3

What systems are affected by CVE-2016-1978?

CVE-2016-1978 affects Mozilla Firefox versions before 44.0 and Mozilla NSS versions before 3.21.

4

What type of vulnerability is CVE-2016-1978?

CVE-2016-1978 is a use-after-free vulnerability in the ssl3_HandleECDHServerKeyExchange function.

5

Can CVE-2016-1978 be exploited remotely?

Yes, CVE-2016-1978 can be exploited remotely by attackers through malicious SSL DHE communications.

Contact

SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
132 Wickham Terrace
Fortitude Valley,
QLD 4006, Australia
info@secalerts.co
By using SecAlerts services, you agree to our services end-user license agreement. This website is safeguarded by reCAPTCHA and governed by the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. All names, logos, and brands of products are owned by their respective owners, and any usage of these names, logos, and brands for identification purposes only does not imply endorsement. If you possess any content that requires removal, please get in touch with us.
© 2026 SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
ABN: 70 645 966 203, ACN: 645 966 203