CVE-2012-1529 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Use-after-free vulnerability in Microsoft Internet Explorer 8 and 9 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted web site that triggers access to an object that (1) was not properly initialized or (2) is deleted, aka "OnMove Use After Free Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/14/2021
The CVE-2012-1529 vulnerability represents a critical use-after-free flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 8 and 9 that enables remote code execution through malicious web content. This vulnerability specifically affects the OnMove method within the browser's object model, creating a scenario where attackers can manipulate memory access patterns to achieve arbitrary code execution. The flaw stems from improper memory management during object lifecycle operations, particularly when handling dynamic content updates. According to CWE-416, this vulnerability classifies as a use-after-free condition where memory is accessed after it has been freed, a common pattern exploited in browser-based attacks. The vulnerability impacts the core rendering engine of Internet Explorer, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through standard web browsing activities without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious site.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when Internet Explorer processes a crafted web page containing malicious JavaScript code that manipulates DOM objects during movement operations. The attacker constructs a webpage that creates an object reference, triggers an OnMove event, and then deletes the object while maintaining a reference to it. When the browser attempts to access the deleted object during subsequent operations, it accesses freed memory locations, potentially allowing attackers to inject and execute malicious code with the privileges of the user running the browser. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK framework's technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically targeting the Windows Scripting Host and browser-based execution environments. The vulnerability demonstrates poor memory management practices in the browser's JavaScript engine, where object lifetime management fails to properly track references and prevent access to deallocated memory regions.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-1529 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it represents a fundamental security flaw in the browser's memory management system that could enable full system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors on affected systems. The vulnerability affects both Windows Vista and Windows 7 systems running the affected Internet Explorer versions, creating a significant attack surface for threat actors. Organizations with legacy systems or those unable to immediately patch may face severe security implications, as this vulnerability can be exploited through drive-by downloads or compromised websites. The use-after-free pattern exploited here aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 for exploitation for persistence, as successful exploitation can lead to long-term system compromise. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-416 emphasizes the critical nature of proper memory management in security-critical applications, particularly in browser environments where memory corruption can result in complete system takeover.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-1529 primarily focus on immediate patching and browser security enhancements. Microsoft released security updates that addressed the memory management issues in Internet Explorer 8 and 9, requiring users to install the relevant patches immediately. Organizations should implement browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary scripting features, implementing content security policies, and using sandboxing techniques to limit the impact of potential exploitation. Network-level defenses such as web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems can help detect and block malicious traffic targeting this vulnerability. Security teams should also consider implementing browser isolation techniques and monitoring for suspicious memory access patterns. The vulnerability highlights the importance of regular security updates and proper vulnerability management processes, as the use-after-free condition could have been prevented through proper memory management practices and thorough code review processes. Organizations should also consider migrating away from unsupported browser versions to reduce exposure to similar vulnerabilities in the future.