CVE-2007-0945 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 SP1 on Windows 2000 SP4; 6 and 7 on Windows XP SP2, or Windows Server 2003 SP1 or SP2; and 7 on Windows Vista allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via certain property methods that may trigger memory corruption, aka "Property Memory Corruption Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/14/2021
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer that affects multiple versions across different Windows operating systems. The issue stems from improper handling of property methods within the browser's JavaScript engine, specifically when processing certain object properties that can lead to heap-based buffer overflows. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, though the actual exploitation targets heap memory corruption patterns. Attackers can leverage this weakness through crafted web content that triggers the problematic property handling code path, potentially allowing remote code execution with the privileges of the compromised user.
The technical exploitation occurs when Internet Explorer processes malicious JavaScript code containing specific property method calls that manipulate object memory structures in an unsafe manner. This memory corruption typically manifests as stack pointer corruption or heap corruption that can be leveraged to overwrite critical memory locations. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through web-based attacks without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website. The attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 by leveraging browser-based exploitation and T1059 for executing malicious code through scripting languages. The affected versions include IE 6 SP1 on Windows 2000 SP4, IE 6 and 7 on Windows XP SP2, and Windows Server 2003 SP1 or SP2, as well as IE 7 on Windows Vista, indicating a widespread impact across Microsoft's browser ecosystem.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential privilege escalation. Successful exploitation can allow attackers to install malware, modify system files, establish persistence mechanisms, and access sensitive data. The vulnerability affects enterprise environments where users may inadvertently visit compromised websites or receive malicious emails containing embedded exploit code. Organizations running these affected versions face significant risk as the attack surface includes web browsing, email clients, and web-based applications that utilize Internet Explorer as their default browser. The memory corruption pattern makes this vulnerability particularly challenging to detect through traditional security monitoring as it may not leave obvious traces in system logs or network traffic. The vulnerability also demonstrates how legacy browser components can remain exploitable for extended periods, highlighting the importance of timely patch management and end-of-life support considerations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily focus on immediate patch deployment through Microsoft's security updates, as well as implementing network-based protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering solutions. Organizations should consider browser isolation techniques and mandatory browser updates as part of their security posture. The mitigation approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566 for preventing initial access through malicious web content and T1071 for protecting against application layer attacks. Additional defensive measures include disabling unnecessary browser features, implementing strict security policies for web content, and conducting regular security assessments to identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and the risks associated with running unsupported software versions that may contain unpatched security flaws.