CVE-2004-1319 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
The DHTML Edit Control (dhtmled.ocx) allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script into other domains by setting a name for a window, opening a child page whose target is the window with the given name, then injecting the script from the parent into the child using execScript, as demonstrated by "AbusiveParent" in Internet Explorer 6.0.2900.2180.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1319 represents a significant cross-domain scripting flaw within the DHTML Edit Control component known as dhtmled.ocx which was prevalent in Internet Explorer 6.0.2900.2180. This issue stems from the improper handling of window naming and script execution mechanisms within the browser's document object model, creating a pathway for malicious actors to bypass security boundaries between different domains. The vulnerability specifically exploits the interaction between the DHTML Edit Control and Internet Explorer's scripting environment, where the control fails to properly validate or sanitize window names that are used for cross-frame communication. This weakness allows attackers to manipulate the target window name attribute in a manner that creates an unintended communication channel between parent and child frames, enabling malicious script injection across domain boundaries.
The technical exploitation mechanism of this vulnerability operates through a multi-step process that leverages the browser's window management system. Attackers first establish a named window reference using the DHTML Edit Control, then navigate to a child page that targets this specific window name in its opening mechanism. Once the target window is established, the malicious actor utilizes the execScript function to execute arbitrary code within the context of the child page, effectively injecting scripts from the parent domain into the child domain. This technique demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the browser's security model where the DHTML Edit Control does not properly enforce cross-domain security policies during window naming operations. The vulnerability specifically affects the window.open() method and execScript() function interaction, creating a scenario where domain isolation is bypassed through the manipulation of named window references.
The operational impact of CVE-2004-1319 extends beyond simple script injection, representing a serious threat to web application security and user data protection. This vulnerability enables attackers to perform cross-site scripting attacks that can compromise user sessions, steal sensitive information, and potentially execute malicious code on victim machines. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through legitimate browser functionality, making it difficult to detect and prevent through standard security measures. The vulnerability allows for the execution of arbitrary JavaScript code within the context of different domains, which means that an attacker could potentially access cookies, session tokens, or other sensitive data that would normally be protected by cross-domain security policies. This capability significantly undermines the security model of modern web browsers and creates opportunities for sophisticated attacks such as session hijacking, credential theft, and data exfiltration.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require a combination of immediate patching and architectural security measures. The primary solution involves applying the relevant security patches from Microsoft that address the DHTML Edit Control's window naming and script execution behavior. Organizations should also implement proper input validation and sanitization for all user-provided content that might interact with browser scripting components. Network-level security measures such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems can help detect and block malicious script injection attempts, though these measures are less effective against this specific vulnerability. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-79, Cross-Site Scripting, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Scripting, specifically highlighting the exploitation of browser scripting environments for cross-domain attacks. Security practitioners should also consider implementing strict Content Security Policy headers and disabling unnecessary ActiveX controls to reduce the attack surface. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of keeping browser software updated remains crucial in defending against this type of vulnerability, as it represents a classic example of how browser component flaws can be exploited to bypass fundamental web security mechanisms.