CVE-2011-1245 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 and 7 does not properly restrict script access to content from a (1) different domain or (2) different zone, which allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information via a crafted web site, aka "Javascript Information Disclosure Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/06/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2011-1245 represents a critical security flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 6 and 7 that fundamentally undermines the browser's security model. This issue stems from the improper enforcement of cross-domain and cross-zone scripting restrictions that are essential components of web browser security architecture. The vulnerability specifically affects the implementation of the Same-Origin Policy, which serves as a cornerstone of web security by preventing scripts from one origin from accessing resources or data from another origin without proper authorization. When this policy is bypassed, it creates dangerous pathways for information disclosure that can be exploited by malicious actors.
The technical flaw manifests in how Internet Explorer handles script access controls when processing content from different domains or security zones. The browser fails to adequately validate or restrict the execution context of JavaScript code, allowing scripts to potentially access sensitive information that should remain isolated between different security boundaries. This occurs when a malicious website attempts to craft specific web content that exploits the browser's insufficient validation mechanisms to access data from other domains or zones. The vulnerability operates at the core of the browser's security architecture, specifically targeting the implementation of security zones and domain isolation features that are designed to prevent unauthorized data access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it enables remote attackers to perform information disclosure attacks against users of affected Internet Explorer versions. Attackers can construct malicious websites that leverage this flaw to access sensitive data that should be protected by the browser's security model, including cookies, session information, or other potentially sensitive user data. The vulnerability particularly affects users who browse the internet with Internet Explorer 6 and 7, which were widely deployed in enterprise environments during the period when this vulnerability existed. This creates a substantial risk for organizations where legacy browser usage persists, as these systems become vulnerable to attacks that can be executed without user interaction or specialized tools.
This vulnerability maps directly to CWE-200, which describes "Information Exposure" and specifically relates to the improper restriction of information access. The flaw also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers "Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript," as attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute JavaScript code that accesses unauthorized information. The security implications extend beyond simple information disclosure to potentially enable more sophisticated attacks such as session hijacking or credential theft. Organizations should note that this vulnerability represents a fundamental breakdown in the browser's security isolation mechanisms, making it particularly dangerous for enterprise environments where users may be exposed to untrusted websites or where legacy systems continue to operate without proper security updates.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate remediation through software updates to newer versions of Internet Explorer that properly implement cross-domain and cross-zone restrictions. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management policies to ensure all systems are running current security updates. Browser security configurations should be reviewed to enforce stricter security zone settings and to disable unnecessary scripting features. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering solutions can provide additional layers of defense. Users should be educated about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of keeping browser software updated. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of maintaining current security software and implementing robust security policies that address legacy system vulnerabilities through either updates or proper isolation measures.