CVE-2011-0663 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple integer overflows in the Microsoft (1) JScript 5.6 through 5.8 and (2) VBScript 5.6 through 5.8 scripting engines allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted web page, aka "Scripting Memory Reallocation Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-0663 represents a critical security flaw affecting Microsoft JScript and VBScript engines across versions 5.6 through 5.8. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-190 category of integer overflow, where the scripting engines fail to properly validate integer values during memory allocation operations. The flaw specifically manifests when these engines process crafted web pages that contain maliciously constructed integer values, leading to unexpected behavior in memory management routines.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the way JScript and VBScript engines handle memory reallocation during script execution. When these engines encounter integer values that exceed their expected range, the overflow conditions cause the memory management system to allocate insufficient buffer space or improperly calculate memory boundaries. This misbehavior creates opportunities for attackers to manipulate memory layout and potentially overwrite critical program structures. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the context of web browsers where scripts are executed automatically, making exploitation possible through simple web page visits without user interaction.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-0663 extends beyond typical script execution scenarios, as it enables remote code execution capabilities that align with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for script-based execution. Attackers can craft malicious web pages that, when loaded in vulnerable browsers, trigger the integer overflow conditions and subsequently execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the browser. This vulnerability affects the core scripting engines that are integral to many web applications, including ActiveX controls, web-based email clients, and various enterprise web portals that rely on scripting for dynamic content delivery.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected systems, as Microsoft released security updates addressing the integer overflow conditions in their scripting engines. Organizations should implement browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary scripting capabilities, implementing content security policies, and deploying web application firewalls to filter potentially malicious content. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper integer validation in memory management systems and aligns with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten, particularly addressing issues related to input validation and memory safety. Additionally, security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual memory allocation patterns and potential exploitation attempts through network traffic analysis and endpoint detection systems.