CVE-2005-2831 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.01, 5.5, and 6 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (application crash) and possibly execute arbitrary code via a web page with embedded CLSIDs that reference certain COM objects that are not intended for use within Internet Explorer, aka a variant of the "COM Object Instantiation Memory Corruption Vulnerability," a different vulnerability than CVE-2005-2127.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/29/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-2831 represents a critical memory corruption issue affecting Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 5.01, 5.5, and 6. This flaw specifically targets the way Internet Explorer handles COM object instantiation through CLSIDs embedded in web pages, creating a pathway for remote attackers to exploit the browser's object model. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-125 as an out-of-bounds read condition, which occurs when the browser attempts to access memory locations beyond the intended boundaries during COM object initialization. This particular variant differs from CVE-2005-2127, indicating a distinct code path or object handling mechanism within the browser's security architecture.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when Internet Explorer encounters a web page containing embedded CLSIDs that reference COM objects not designed for browser execution contexts. These objects, when instantiated through the browser's object model, trigger memory corruption through improper validation of object boundaries and memory allocation during the instantiation process. The flaw essentially allows attackers to manipulate the browser's memory management routines by leveraging the COM infrastructure, which is inherently designed for local application integration rather than web-based execution environments. This creates a scenario where the browser's memory corruption can lead to either application crashes or potentially arbitrary code execution depending on the specific memory layout and exploitation conditions.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant threat to enterprise and individual users who rely on older Internet Explorer versions for web browsing. The denial of service component can cause unpredictable browser behavior and application instability, while the potential for arbitrary code execution creates a vector for more sophisticated attacks including malware deployment, privilege escalation, or system compromise. The vulnerability's exploitation requires only a malicious web page, making it particularly dangerous in phishing campaigns or compromised websites where users might inadvertently trigger the exploit. Network administrators face challenges in mitigating this issue since it affects legacy browser versions that may still be in use within certain corporate environments or for specific legacy applications.
The attack surface for this vulnerability aligns with the ATT&CK framework's T1203 technique for "Exploitation for Client Execution," where adversaries leverage browser vulnerabilities to execute malicious code on target systems. The vulnerability also maps to T1059 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter" as it can enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands through the compromised browser. Security professionals should consider this vulnerability as part of a broader attack chain where initial access through web-based exploitation can lead to further compromise. Organizations should implement browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary COM object access, implementing strict content security policies, and deploying web application firewalls to prevent access to potentially malicious web content. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date browsers and the risks associated with using legacy software versions that no longer receive security updates.