CVE-2011-0658 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
Integer underflow in the OLE Automation protocol implementation in VBScript.dll in Microsoft Windows XP SP2 and SP3, Windows Server 2003 SP2, Windows Vista SP1 and SP2, Windows Server 2008 Gold, SP2, R2, and R2 SP1, and Windows 7 Gold and SP1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted WMF file, aka "OLE Automation Underflow Vulnerability."
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/19/2021
The CVE-2011-0658 vulnerability represents a critical integer underflow flaw within the OLE Automation protocol implementation in VBScript.dll across multiple Microsoft Windows operating systems. This vulnerability affects Windows XP SP2 and SP3, Windows Server 2003 SP2, Windows Vista SP1 and SP2, Windows Server 2008 Gold, SP2, R2, and R2 SP1, as well as Windows 7 Gold and SP1. The flaw manifests specifically when processing crafted WMF (Windows Metafile) files through the OLE Automation interface, creating a path for remote code execution attacks. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the VBScript.dll component that handles OLE automation requests, where integer underflow conditions can occur during memory allocation calculations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a malicious WMF file is processed by a vulnerable system, triggering the integer underflow in the VBScript.dll module. This underflow condition creates a scenario where a calculated memory buffer size becomes negative or exceeds normal bounds, leading to memory corruption that attackers can manipulate to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application. The vulnerability specifically targets the OLE Automation protocol implementation which is used for dynamic object creation and manipulation, making it particularly dangerous when combined with the widespread use of WMF files in web and email environments. This flaw falls under CWE-191, Integer Underflow, and represents a classic buffer overflow exploitation vector that leverages improper integer handling in memory management operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-0658 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with a reliable method to compromise vulnerable systems without requiring user interaction beyond viewing a malicious file. The vulnerability's broad target scope across multiple Windows versions makes it particularly attractive to threat actors seeking maximum impact with minimal effort. The attack surface includes web browsers, email clients, and any application that processes WMF files through the OLE Automation interface. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, Exploitation for Client Execution, and T1059, Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it enables attackers to execute malicious code through VBScript execution. The vulnerability's exploitation potential is further enhanced by the fact that many organizations were still running vulnerable Windows versions when this flaw was disclosed, creating a substantial attack surface.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-0658 should prioritize immediate patch deployment through Microsoft's security updates, as the vulnerability was addressed through official Microsoft security bulletins. Organizations should implement network-based protections such as blocking WMF file extensions at network boundaries and email gateways to prevent delivery of malicious files. Application whitelisting solutions can help by restricting execution of VBScript and related automation components to trusted applications only. System hardening measures including disabling unnecessary OLE automation features, restricting user privileges, and implementing proper memory protection mechanisms can reduce exploitation success rates. Additionally, security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual VBScript execution patterns and memory allocation anomalies that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a prime example of why maintaining up-to-date security patches is critical, as the flaw existed for years without proper mitigation, demonstrating the importance of continuous vulnerability management and proactive security measures.