CVE-2002-0691 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.01 and 5.5 allows remote attackers to execute scripts in the Local Computer zone via a URL that references a local HTML resource file, a variant of "Cross-Site Scripting in Local HTML Resource" as identified by CAN-2002-0189.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/23/2024
This vulnerability resides in Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 5.01 and 5.5, representing a significant security flaw that enables remote code execution through crafted URLs. The issue stems from how Internet Explorer handles local HTML resource files when referenced through URLs, creating an unexpected execution path that bypasses normal security boundaries. The vulnerability specifically affects the Local Computer zone, which is a security context that typically grants higher privileges to local resources while maintaining strict isolation from remote content. This particular flaw represents a variant of cross-site scripting attacks that exploit the trust relationship between local resources and the browser's security model, as documented in CAN-2002-0189 which established similar patterns for local HTML resource exploitation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the browser's handling of URLs that reference local HTML files through the file:// protocol or similar local resource mechanisms. When Internet Explorer processes such URLs, it fails to properly validate or sanitize the references to local HTML resources, allowing attackers to craft malicious URLs that can execute scripts within the Local Computer zone context. This behavior creates a privilege escalation scenario where remote attackers can leverage the browser's trust in local resources to execute arbitrary code that would normally be restricted. The flaw essentially allows an attacker to bypass the normal security boundaries that separate local and remote content, enabling malicious script execution in a context that typically should be more restrictive.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides remote attackers with a mechanism to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems without requiring any user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website. The Local Computer zone typically operates with higher privileges than other security zones, meaning successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise. Attackers can craft URLs that reference local HTML files containing malicious scripts, which then execute with the privileges of the Local Computer zone, potentially allowing access to system resources, file manipulation, or further exploitation of the compromised system. This vulnerability essentially transforms a remote attack vector into a local privilege escalation opportunity, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where local resources are often trusted.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patch application from Microsoft, as the flaw represents a fundamental security issue in the browser's handling of local resources. Organizations should implement network-level controls to restrict access to potentially malicious URLs and ensure that Internet Explorer is updated to versions that properly address this vulnerability. Security configurations should include disabling local HTML resource access where possible, and implementing strict browser security policies that prevent automatic execution of scripts from local resources. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of keeping their browsers updated. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-79 Cross-Site Scripting and follows ATT&CK techniques related to privilege escalation and code execution in local system contexts, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security measures beyond simple patch management.