CVE-2023-5175 is a critical use-after-free vulnerability identified in Mozilla Firefox versions prior to 118. The flaw occurs during the browser's process shutdown phase, where an ImageBitmap object may be created and subsequently accessed after it has been freed via a different code path. This use-after-free condition can lead to a potentially exploitable crash, allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause denial of service. The vulnerability is rooted in improper memory management of ImageBitmap objects, classified under CWE-416 (Use After Free). The CVSS v3.1 score of 9.8 reflects the high severity, with an attack vector that is network-based (AV:N), requiring no privileges (PR:N) and no user interaction (UI:N). The impact spans confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as exploitation could allow remote code execution without authentication or user action. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the critical nature and ease of exploitation make it a significant threat. The vulnerability affects all Firefox versions before 118, which is widely used across multiple platforms and regions.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk due to Firefox's widespread adoption in both private and public sectors. Exploitation could lead to remote code execution, enabling attackers to compromise sensitive data, disrupt services, or pivot within networks. Critical infrastructure, government agencies, financial institutions, and enterprises relying on Firefox for web access could face data breaches, operational downtime, and reputational damage. The lack of required privileges or user interaction lowers the barrier for attackers, increasing the likelihood of automated exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations with strict compliance requirements (e.g., GDPR) may face regulatory consequences if breaches occur due to unpatched vulnerabilities.

European organizations should prioritize updating Firefox to version 118 or later, where this vulnerability is addressed. Beyond patching, organizations should implement network-level protections such as web filtering and intrusion detection systems tuned to detect anomalous browser behavior or exploitation attempts targeting ImageBitmap handling. Employing endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions can help identify and contain exploitation activities. Administrators should audit and restrict browser extensions and plugins that might increase attack surface. For environments where immediate patching is not feasible, isolating critical systems and enforcing strict network segmentation can reduce exposure. Regular vulnerability scanning and penetration testing should include checks for this specific CVE to ensure remediation effectiveness.