CVE-2007-5344 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.01 through 7 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted website using Javascript that creates, modifies, deletes, and accesses document objects using the tags property, which triggers heap corruption, related to uninitialized or deleted objects, a different issue than CVE-2007-3902 and CVE-2007-3903, and a variant of "Uninitialized Memory Corruption Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/16/2021
This vulnerability affects Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 5.01 through 7 and represents a critical heap corruption issue that enables remote code execution through malicious JavaScript manipulation. The flaw specifically occurs when JavaScript code exploits the tags property of document objects to create, modify, delete, and access document elements in ways that trigger memory corruption. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-125 Uninitialized Memory Corruption category and demonstrates how improper memory management in web browsers can lead to arbitrary code execution. The issue is distinct from CVE-2007-3902 and CVE-2007-3903 but shares similarities with other uninitialized memory corruption vulnerabilities that have been documented in the industry.
The technical exploitation mechanism involves JavaScript code that manipulates the tags property of document objects to trigger heap corruption through uninitialized or deleted object access patterns. When Internet Explorer processes these malicious JavaScript operations, it fails to properly validate or initialize memory structures before accessing them, creating opportunities for attackers to overwrite memory locations with malicious code. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through standard web browsing activities without requiring any special privileges or user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website. The vulnerability operates at the memory management level within the browser's JavaScript engine, making it difficult to detect and prevent through traditional security measures.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems with the privileges of the user running Internet Explorer. This creates a significant risk for enterprise environments where users may inadvertently visit malicious websites or be targeted through phishing attacks. The vulnerability affects a wide range of Internet Explorer versions, making it particularly dangerous for organizations that have not yet migrated to newer browser versions. Attackers can leverage this flaw to install malware, steal sensitive information, or establish persistent access to compromised systems. The exploitability factor is high due to the ease with which malicious websites can be crafted to trigger this memory corruption issue.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include applying the relevant Microsoft security patches that address the heap corruption issue in Internet Explorer 5.01 through 7. Organizations should prioritize immediate patch deployment and consider implementing browser hardening measures such as disabling JavaScript or implementing content security policies. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 Exploitation for Client Execution and T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter, highlighting the need for layered security approaches that include web application firewalls, network monitoring, and user education. Additionally, organizations should consider migrating away from legacy Internet Explorer versions to more secure modern browsers that have better memory management and security features. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify any remaining instances of the affected browser versions within the organization's environment.