CVE-2003-0814 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Internet Explorer 6 SP1 and earlier allows remote attackers to bypass zone restrictions and execute Javascript by setting the window s "href" to the malicious Javascript, then calling execCommand("Refresh") to refresh the page, aka BodyRefreshLoadsJPU or the "ExecCommand Cross Domain" vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/31/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-0814 represents a critical security flaw in Internet Explorer 6 Service Pack 1 and earlier versions that fundamentally undermines the browser's security model. This issue specifically targets the zone security mechanism that separates trusted and untrusted content domains, creating a pathway for remote attackers to circumvent these protective boundaries. The vulnerability operates through a sophisticated technique that exploits the browser's handling of cross-domain content execution, effectively allowing malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary javascript code from untrusted domains within the context of trusted zones.
The technical exploitation mechanism relies on manipulating the window object's href property to point to malicious javascript content, followed by invoking the execCommand("Refresh") function to trigger page reloading. This process creates a race condition where the browser's security checks fail to properly validate the content being loaded during the refresh operation. The flaw stems from the improper handling of the refresh command when it encounters javascript content within the href property, allowing the execution context to be elevated beyond the intended security boundaries. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it bypasses the standard security restrictions that should prevent cross-domain script execution, effectively creating a backdoor for malicious code injection.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables attackers to perform a wide range of malicious activities including but not limited to session hijacking, credential theft, and data exfiltration. The ability to execute javascript across domain boundaries means that attackers can target users' sensitive information even when they are browsing within trusted zones such as the local intranet or trusted websites. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it can be delivered through various means including phishing emails, compromised websites, or malicious advertisements, making it difficult to defend against through traditional network security measures. This vulnerability essentially renders the browser's zone security model ineffective, creating a persistent threat that can compromise user sessions and sensitive data.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability primarily focus on immediate remediation through software updates, as Microsoft released patches to address the specific flaw in subsequent service packs. Organizations should implement comprehensive browser security policies that include disabling unnecessary features like execCommand functionality where possible, and deploying additional security layers such as content filtering solutions and web application firewalls. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, "Improper Input Validation," and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript," highlighting the exploitation of scripting capabilities to bypass security controls. Additionally, this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper security boundary enforcement in browser architectures and serves as a critical reminder of the need for robust input validation and context-aware security checks in web applications. Organizations should also consider implementing security awareness training to help users recognize potential phishing attempts that might leverage this vulnerability, as user education remains a crucial component of overall security posture.