CVE-2005-1989 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Unknown vulnerability in Internet Explorer 5.0, 5.5, and 6.0 allows remote attackers to obtain information and possibly execute code when browsing from a web site to a web folder view using WebDAV, aka "Web Folder Behaviors Cross-Domain Vulnerability".
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/30/2025
This vulnerability exists in Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 5.0, 5.5, and 6.0 and represents a cross-domain information disclosure and potential code execution flaw when processing WebDAV requests. The vulnerability specifically affects the web folder behaviors functionality that allows users to browse web folders through the web interface. When Internet Explorer encounters a web folder view that utilizes WebDAV protocols, it fails to properly validate cross-domain requests, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to exploit this weakness. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of web folder behaviors that can lead to information disclosure and arbitrary code execution, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users may access multiple domains through a single browser instance. This type of vulnerability is categorized under CWE-200, which deals with information exposure, and also relates to CWE-94, representing improper control of generation of code, as the flaw can potentially allow code execution. The attack vector involves a remote web server hosting malicious content that triggers the vulnerable behavior when a user navigates to a web folder view using WebDAV protocols.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the way Internet Explorer handles web folder behaviors in conjunction with WebDAV functionality. When a user accesses a web folder that uses WebDAV, the browser's handling of the web folder behaviors can be manipulated to execute code from different domains or to disclose sensitive information from the local system. The flaw occurs because the browser does not properly enforce cross-domain security boundaries when processing WebDAV requests, allowing malicious web content to bypass normal security restrictions. This vulnerability specifically affects the browser's handling of web folder views, which are typically used for accessing shared network resources through the web interface. The exploitation process involves crafting a malicious web page that, when viewed in Internet Explorer, triggers the vulnerable WebDAV behavior and allows attackers to either retrieve information from the local system or execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through simple web browsing activities without requiring any special user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure to include potential complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious code on vulnerable systems, potentially leading to full system compromise, data theft, or further lateral movement within networks. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of Internet Explorer, making it particularly widespread and difficult to mitigate in enterprise environments where legacy systems may still be in use. Organizations running these older browser versions face significant risk, as the vulnerability can be exploited through standard web browsing activities, making it difficult to detect and prevent. The attack requires minimal user interaction, typically just visiting a malicious website, which makes it particularly effective for phishing campaigns or drive-by downloads. From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper cross-domain security enforcement and highlights the risks associated with legacy browser support in enterprise environments. The vulnerability also represents a classic example of how web technologies can introduce security risks when not properly implemented, particularly in the area of web folder behaviors and WebDAV integration.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate browser updates and security policy enforcement. Microsoft released patches for this vulnerability in their security updates, and organizations should ensure all affected Internet Explorer versions are updated to the latest security patches. The recommended approach includes disabling WebDAV functionality in Internet Explorer where possible, implementing strict web content filtering, and ensuring users are educated about the risks of visiting untrusted websites. Network security measures such as web application firewalls and content filtering solutions can help detect and block malicious WebDAV requests. Organizations should also consider implementing security policies that restrict access to web folder views and disable unnecessary browser features that could be exploited. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of keeping browser software up to date, as this flaw was addressed through Microsoft's regular security update cycle. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques such as T1059 for execution through web shells and T1068 for privilege escalation, making it a significant concern for defensive cybersecurity teams. Additionally, organizations should implement proper network segmentation to limit the impact of successful exploitation attempts and ensure that vulnerable systems are isolated from critical network resources. The vulnerability also highlights the need for comprehensive vulnerability management programs that include regular assessment of legacy systems and proper retirement of outdated software components.