CVE-2022-39236: Matrix Javascript SDK improper beacon events can cause availability issues
Matrix Javascript SDK is the Matrix Client-Server SDK for JavaScript. Starting with version 17.1.0-rc.1, improperly formed beacon events can disrupt or impede the matrix-js-sdk from functioning properly, potentially impacting the consumer's ability to process data safely. Note that the matrix-js-sdk can appear to be operating normally but be excluding or corrupting runtime data presented to the consumer. This is patched in matrix-js-sdk v19.7.0. Redacting applicable events, waiting for the sync processor to store data, and restarting the client are possible workarounds. Alternatively, redacting the applicable events and clearing all storage will fix the further perceived issues. Downgrading to an unaffected version, noting that such a version may be subject to other vulnerabilities, will additionally resolve the issue.
Other sources
Thunderbird users who use the Matrix chat protocol were vulnerable to a data corruption issue. An adversary could potentially cause data integrity issues by sending specially crafted messages.
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Upgrade
Upgrade
Thunderbirdto a version that resolves this vulnerability.Fixed in 102.3.1 - Upgrade
Upgrade
alpine/element-webto a version that resolves this vulnerability.Fixed in 1.11.7-r0 - Upgrade
Upgrade
alpine/riot-webto a version that resolves this vulnerability.Fixed in 1.11.7-r0 - Upgrade
Upgrade
redhat/thunderbirdto a version that resolves this vulnerability.Fixed in 102.3.1 - Upgrade
Upgrade to a fixed release to a version that resolves this vulnerability.
Fixed in 102.3.1 - Upgrade
Upgrade
matrix-js-sdkto a version that resolves this vulnerability.Fixed in 19.7.0 - Operational
As workarounds, redact applicable events, wait for the sync processor to store the data, restart the client, and clear all storage.
Event History
Peer vulnerabilities
Found alongside the following vulnerabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CVE-2022-39236?
CVE-2022-39236 is a vulnerability that affected Thunderbird users who use the Matrix chat protocol, allowing an adversary to cause data corruption issues.
Which software is affected by CVE-2022-39236?
Mozilla Thunderbird version up to 102.3.1 is affected by CVE-2022-39236.
How severe is CVE-2022-39236?
CVE-2022-39236 has a severity level of medium (4 out of 10).
How can an adversary exploit CVE-2022-39236?
An adversary can exploit CVE-2022-39236 by sending specially crafted messages through the Matrix chat protocol to cause data integrity issues.
Where can I find more information about CVE-2022-39236?
You can find more information about CVE-2022-39236 in the references provided: [Mozilla Bugzilla](https://bugzilla.mozilla.org/show_bug.cgi?id=1791765) and [Mozilla Security Advisory](https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/security/advisories/mfsa2022-43/).