CVE-2003-0532 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Internet Explorer 5.01 SP3 through 6.0 SP1 does not properly determine object types that are returned by web servers, which could allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via an object tag with a data parameter to a malicious file hosted on a server that returns an unsafe Content-Type, aka the "Object Type" vulnerability.
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/31/2024
The CVE-2003-0532 vulnerability represents a critical type confusion flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 5.01 Service Pack 3 through 6.0 Service Pack 1. This vulnerability operates at the core of how Internet Explorer processes ActiveX objects and handles content type determination from web servers. The flaw stems from the browser's inadequate validation mechanisms when interpreting object types returned by web servers, creating a pathway for malicious code execution through carefully crafted object tags with unsafe data parameters. The vulnerability specifically targets the browser's object type resolution process, where it fails to properly validate the content type information provided by servers, leading to potential privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the browser's trust model and improper handling of Content-Type headers returned by web servers. When Internet Explorer encounters an object tag with a data parameter pointing to a malicious file, it relies on the server's Content-Type header to determine how to process the object. However, the vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate this process by hosting malicious files on servers that return unsafe Content-Type values such as text/plain or application/octet-stream instead of the appropriate MIME types. This manipulation causes Internet Explorer to incorrectly interpret the object type, potentially executing malicious code with the privileges of the user running the browser. The vulnerability maps directly to CWE-457: Use of Uninitialized Variable and CWE-119: Improper Restriction of Operations within a Limited Access Scope, as it involves improper handling of uninitialized or improperly validated object type information.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching across enterprise networks and individual user environments. Attackers can leverage this flaw through various attack vectors including malicious websites, compromised web servers, or social engineering campaigns that trick users into visiting harmful content. The vulnerability affects users across multiple Windows platforms including Windows 2000, Windows XP, and Windows Server 2003, making it particularly dangerous in corporate environments where these systems were prevalent. Successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise, allowing attackers to install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent access to affected systems. The vulnerability's impact aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190: Exploit Public-Facing Application, as it represents a server-side vulnerability that can be exploited through web applications, and T1059: Command and Scripting Interpreter, since the execution of malicious code often involves scripting languages.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2003-0532 primarily involve immediate patching of affected Internet Explorer versions through Microsoft's security updates, specifically Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-039 which addressed this vulnerability. Organizations should implement network-level controls including web application firewalls and content filtering systems to prevent access to known malicious domains and files. Browser hardening measures such as disabling ActiveX controls, implementing strict content security policies, and using sandboxing techniques can significantly reduce the attack surface. Additionally, user education and awareness programs should emphasize the dangers of visiting untrusted websites and downloading unknown files. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and content type handling in web browsers, aligning with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-171 and ISO/IEC 27001 frameworks. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues in other browser components and web applications.