CVE-2008-4258 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.01 SP4 and 6 SP1 does not properly validate parameters during calls to navigation methods, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted HTML document that triggers memory corruption, aka "Parameter Validation Memory Corruption Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/17/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-4258 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 5.01 Service Pack 4 and 6 Service Pack 1. This issue stems from improper parameter validation during navigation method calls, creating a pathway for remote code execution through maliciously crafted HTML documents. The vulnerability operates at the core of Internet Explorer's navigation handling mechanisms, where the browser fails to adequately sanitize input parameters before processing them, leading to unpredictable memory states that attackers can exploit.
This memory corruption vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of Stack-based Buffer Overflow, though it manifests more broadly as a parameter validation failure that can result in arbitrary code execution. The flaw specifically affects the browser's handling of navigation methods such as window.navigate, window.location.replace, and similar functions that manipulate browser navigation. When these methods receive malformed or malicious parameters, the browser's internal memory management routines become compromised, potentially allowing attackers to overwrite critical memory locations with malicious code payloads.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious webpage. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it can be delivered through standard web browsing activities, making it difficult to defend against through traditional user awareness measures. Once exploited, the vulnerability can lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to install malware, steal sensitive information, or establish persistent access to affected systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-4258 primarily involve applying the official Microsoft security patches released in response to this vulnerability. Organizations should prioritize immediate patch deployment across all affected Internet Explorer installations, particularly in environments where legacy systems remain operational. Additional defensive measures include implementing browser security restrictions through Internet Explorer's security zones and ActiveX controls, disabling unnecessary navigation methods, and employing web application firewalls to filter suspicious HTML content. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which describes exploitation of software vulnerabilities for privilege escalation and persistent access, highlighting the need for comprehensive endpoint protection strategies beyond simple patch management.