CVE-2011-1254 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 through 8 does not properly handle objects in memory, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by accessing an object that (1) was not properly initialized or (2) is deleted, aka "Drag and Drop Memory Corruption Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/08/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-1254 represents a critical memory corruption flaw affecting Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 6 through 8. This vulnerability specifically manifests during drag and drop operations within the browser environment, where improper memory handling leads to potential remote code execution. The flaw stems from the browser's inadequate management of object lifecycle within memory structures, creating exploitable conditions that malicious actors can leverage to compromise affected systems. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-125 as an out-of-bounds read condition, where the browser attempts to access memory locations that have either not been properly initialized or have already been deallocated.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when Internet Explorer processes drag and drop operations involving objects that exist in memory. During these operations, the browser fails to properly validate object states before accessing them, resulting in a scenario where an attacker can manipulate memory references to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected user. The vulnerability specifically targets the browser's memory management subsystem, particularly how it handles objects that are in transitional states between initialization and deletion. This memory corruption vulnerability allows attackers to craft malicious web content that, when rendered by the vulnerable browser, triggers the memory access violation and subsequently executes malicious payload code.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-1254 is substantial given the widespread deployment of Internet Explorer 6 through 8 in enterprise environments during the affected period. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability through web-based attacks, requiring users to visit malicious websites or open specially crafted email attachments that contain malicious web content. The remote code execution capability means that successful exploitation can lead to full system compromise, allowing attackers to install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent access to compromised systems. This vulnerability directly maps to attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 sub-technique for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as exploitation typically involves executing malicious code within the browser context. The vulnerability affects systems across multiple operating systems including Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where legacy browser versions remain in use.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-1254 primarily focus on immediate remediation through Microsoft security updates, as the vulnerability was addressed in Microsoft Security Bulletin MS11-030. Organizations should prioritize patching affected systems and implementing browser hardening measures such as disabling drag and drop functionality in web applications when possible. Additional protective measures include implementing web application firewalls, deploying content security policies, and restricting user privileges to minimize potential damage from successful exploitation. Network-based protections such as intrusion detection systems can help detect exploitation attempts, though the vulnerability's nature makes detection challenging due to its memory corruption characteristics. Security awareness training for end users remains crucial to prevent accidental exploitation through social engineering attacks that leverage this vulnerability. Organizations should also consider implementing browser isolation techniques and maintaining up-to-date vulnerability management processes to prevent similar issues from occurring in the future.