CVE-2005-0055 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Internet Explorer 5.01, 5.5, and 6 does not properly validate buffers when handling certain DHTML methods including the createControlRange Javascript function, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code, aka the "DHTML Method Heap Memory Corruption Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/05/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-0055 represents a critical heap memory corruption flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 5.01, 5.5, and 6.0 that stems from inadequate buffer validation during the processing of specific DHTML methods. This vulnerability specifically affects the createControlRange javascript function which is part of the Document Object Model Dynamic HTML capabilities within the browser. The flaw occurs when Internet Explorer fails to properly validate input parameters and memory boundaries when executing DHTML operations, creating opportunities for malicious code injection through carefully crafted web content.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The issue manifests when the browser's JavaScript engine processes the createControlRange method without adequate parameter validation, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited to gain arbitrary code execution privileges. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript, where attackers leverage browser-based scripting to deliver malicious payloads.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-0055 is severe as it enables remote code execution without user interaction, making it particularly dangerous for enterprise environments where users may inadvertently visit compromised websites. Attackers can craft malicious web pages that, when loaded in affected Internet Explorer versions, trigger the heap corruption and allow them to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the logged-in user. This vulnerability was particularly concerning because Internet Explorer 5.x and 6.0 were widely deployed across corporate networks during this period, creating extensive attack surface.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability required immediate patching through Microsoft's security updates, as no effective workarounds existed for the underlying buffer validation flaw. Organizations needed to implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all affected systems received the necessary security updates. The vulnerability also highlighted the importance of browser sandboxing and memory protection mechanisms, which became more prominent in subsequent security implementations. Network administrators were advised to consider alternative browser deployment strategies and implement web content filtering solutions to reduce exposure while patches were being deployed. This vulnerability contributed significantly to the evolution of browser security practices and the development of more robust memory safety mechanisms in web browsers.