CVE-2013-1288 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Use-after-free vulnerability in Microsoft Internet Explorer 8 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted web site that triggers access to a deleted object, aka "Internet Explorer CTreeNode Use After Free Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/06/2021
The CVE-2013-1288 vulnerability represents a critical use-after-free flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer 8 that enables remote code execution through malicious web content. This vulnerability specifically affects the CTreeNode class within Internet Explorer's rendering engine, creating a scenario where memory management errors can be exploited by attackers to gain arbitrary code execution capabilities. The flaw stems from improper handling of object references in the browser's memory management system, where objects are accessed after being freed from memory, creating a predictable exploitation vector.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of the browser's document object model where attackers craft malicious web pages that trigger the deletion of CTreeNode objects while maintaining references to them. When the browser attempts to access these freed objects during subsequent operations, the memory layout allows attackers to control the execution flow by overwriting critical function pointers or executing arbitrary code within the browser process context. This particular vulnerability aligns with CWE-416, which specifically addresses use-after-free conditions in software implementations, and demonstrates the dangerous consequences when memory management errors intersect with browser rendering engines.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-1288 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it represents a sophisticated attack vector that can bypass modern security mechanisms including address space layout randomization and data execution prevention. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious payloads that may include malware installation, privilege escalation, or information theft. The exploitability of this vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires no user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website, making it a prime candidate for drive-by download attacks that can compromise user systems without their knowledge.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework where it maps to techniques involving exploitation of remote services and privilege escalation through browser-based attacks. The vulnerability demonstrates how memory corruption issues in widely used software can create persistent security risks that require immediate remediation. Organizations should prioritize patch management and browser security updates to mitigate this risk, while also implementing network-level protections such as web application firewalls and browser isolation technologies to reduce the attack surface.
The remediation approach for CVE-2013-1288 requires immediate deployment of Microsoft security updates that address the memory management flaw in Internet Explorer 8's CTreeNode implementation. System administrators should also consider implementing security policies that disable unnecessary browser features and restrict access to untrusted websites. The vulnerability highlights the importance of regular security assessments and the need for organizations to maintain up-to-date security patches across all browser versions, as Internet Explorer 8 reached end-of-life status and no longer receives security updates from Microsoft. Organizations should also consider migrating to supported browser versions that have better memory protection mechanisms and reduced attack surface areas.