CVE-2006-4685 in XML Core Services
Summary
by MITRE
The XMLHTTP ActiveX control in Microsoft XML Parser 2.6 and XML Core Services 3.0 through 6.0 does not properly handle HTTP server-side redirects, which allows remote user-assisted attackers to access content from other domains.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/24/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4685 resides within the XMLHTTP ActiveX control implementation in Microsoft XML Parser versions 2.6 and XML Core Services versions 3.0 through 6.0. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that directly impacts web browser security models and cross-domain access controls. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of HTTP server-side redirects within the ActiveX control, creating a pathway for malicious actors to bypass standard security boundaries that typically prevent cross-domain data access.
The technical flaw manifests when the XMLHTTP ActiveX control processes HTTP redirects from one domain to another. Under normal circumstances, web browsers enforce strict same-origin policies that prevent scripts from accessing resources from different domains without proper authorization. However, this vulnerability allows the control to follow redirects without properly validating the target domain, effectively enabling attackers to manipulate the control into accessing content from unauthorized domains. The issue specifically affects the redirect handling mechanism within the ActiveX component, which fails to maintain proper security context when transitioning between domains during HTTP communication.
This vulnerability operates under the broader context of cross-site scripting and cross-domain access attacks, where the attacker can leverage the ActiveX control's improper redirect handling to execute unauthorized data retrieval operations. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it potentially allows attackers to access sensitive data that should be restricted to specific domains. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in user-assisted attack scenarios where a victim must visit a malicious website that triggers the vulnerable code path, making it a significant concern for enterprise environments where users may encounter untrusted content.
From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability creates a significant risk for organizations relying on Microsoft XML Core Services for web applications and data processing. The attack vector typically involves crafting malicious web pages that utilize the vulnerable ActiveX control to make requests that would normally be blocked by security policies. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-200, which covers "Information Disclosure" and specifically addresses improper handling of redirect mechanisms that can lead to unauthorized access. This weakness enables attackers to potentially access content that should remain protected, undermining the fundamental security principles of web application isolation.
The attack model leverages the ActiveX control's behavior in handling HTTP redirects, where the control follows redirects without proper domain validation, allowing attackers to redirect requests to arbitrary domains. This vulnerability can be exploited through social engineering techniques where users are tricked into visiting malicious websites that trigger the vulnerable code path. The attack requires no special privileges or elevated access, making it particularly concerning for enterprise security. Organizations using affected versions of XML Core Services are exposed to risks including data leakage, information disclosure, and potential further exploitation through chained vulnerabilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-4685 focus on immediate patching and configuration changes to prevent exploitation. Microsoft released security updates addressing this vulnerability, and organizations should ensure all affected systems receive these patches promptly. Additionally, administrators should consider disabling ActiveX controls in web browsers where possible, implementing strict content security policies, and monitoring for unusual redirect patterns in network traffic. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and security context management in web components, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript" where malicious scripts can exploit similar weaknesses in web technologies to bypass security controls.