CVE-2012-1877 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 a deleted object, aka "Title Element Change Remote Code Execution Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/25/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-1877 represents a critical memory corruption flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 6 through 9, specifically affecting the browser's handling of objects in memory during dynamic content rendering. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-125 weakness category, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions that can lead to arbitrary code execution. The flaw manifests when Internet Explorer processes title elements within web pages, particularly during rapid modifications or deletions of DOM elements, creating a scenario where memory addresses become invalid while still being referenced by the browser's rendering engine. This particular vulnerability demonstrates the classic characteristics of a use-after-free vulnerability, where an attacker can manipulate the browser into accessing memory that has already been freed, allowing for the execution of malicious code with the privileges of the user running the affected browser.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a sophisticated attack vector that leverages the browser's object model management system. When Internet Explorer encounters a title element that undergoes rapid changes or deletion operations, the memory management system fails to properly track the object references, creating a window where freed memory can be accessed by malicious code. This memory corruption allows attackers to overwrite critical memory locations with malicious instructions, effectively hijacking the browser process. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the browser's rendering context, meaning that successful exploitation can occur through standard web browsing activities without requiring any special user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website. The attack leverages the browser's JavaScript engine and DOM manipulation capabilities, making it particularly challenging to detect and prevent through traditional security measures.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-1877 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a powerful foothold for further compromise within the target system. Once an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they can execute arbitrary code with the same privileges as the user running Internet Explorer, potentially leading to full system compromise through privilege escalation attacks or lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability affects a broad range of Windows operating systems, including Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7, making it particularly attractive to attackers targeting enterprise environments where these older browser versions may still be in use. The exploitability of this vulnerability is enhanced by the fact that it requires no user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website, making it a prime candidate for drive-by download attacks and automated exploit campaigns. Organizations running affected versions of Internet Explorer face significant risk, as this vulnerability can be exploited through standard web traffic without any additional attack surface requirements.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-1877 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security posture improvements. Microsoft addressed this vulnerability through security updates that included memory management improvements and enhanced object reference tracking within Internet Explorer's rendering engine. Organizations should implement immediate patch management procedures to ensure all affected systems receive the relevant security updates, particularly given that Internet Explorer 6 through 9 reached end-of-life support and no longer receive security updates from Microsoft. Additional defensive measures include implementing browser hardening techniques such as disabling unnecessary browser features, configuring enhanced security settings, and deploying web application firewalls to filter malicious content. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1203, which describes exploitation of remote services, and T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreters, indicating that exploitation typically involves JavaScript-based attacks that can be detected through behavioral monitoring and network traffic analysis. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation, as well as regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other browser components or web applications.