CVE-2011-1995 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 through 9 does not properly handle objects in memory, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by accessing an object that was not properly initialized, aka "OLEAuto32.dll Remote Code Execution Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/23/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-1995 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 6 through 9 that specifically affects the OLEAuto32.dll component. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-125 weakness category, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions where an application accesses memory beyond its intended boundaries. The flaw manifests when Internet Explorer processes objects in memory without proper initialization checks, creating a scenario where attackers can manipulate memory states to achieve unauthorized code execution.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a sophisticated attack vector that leverages improper object handling within the browser's memory management system. When Internet Explorer encounters certain web content that triggers the loading of uninitialized objects, the application fails to validate the object state before executing operations on it. This memory access violation creates an opportunity for remote code execution, as attackers can craft malicious web pages that force the browser into a state where it will execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the vulnerable browser. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through web-based attacks without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-1995 extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a powerful foothold for further compromise within affected systems. This vulnerability enables attackers to bypass security controls and establish persistent access to target systems, making it a preferred target for advanced persistent threat campaigns. The attack surface is broad given that Internet Explorer 6 through 9 were widely deployed across enterprise environments, making organizations particularly vulnerable to exploitation. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands on compromised systems. Additionally, this flaw can facilitate privilege escalation attacks and lateral movement within networks, as the executed code typically runs with the privileges of the current user context.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-1995 require immediate action from organizations, including deployment of Microsoft security patches that address the memory handling issues in OLEAuto32.dll. System administrators should implement browser hardening measures such as disabling ActiveX controls and implementing strict content security policies to prevent exploitation. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring and blocking suspicious web traffic patterns associated with this vulnerability. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management systems to ensure timely deployment of security updates, as this vulnerability was actively exploited in the wild during its active period. The remediation process must include thorough testing of patches in controlled environments to prevent disruption of critical business applications that might depend on legacy browser functionality.