CVE-2013-3140 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Use-after-free vulnerability in Microsoft Internet Explorer 9 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted web site that triggers access to a deleted CMarkup object, aka "Internet Explorer Use After Free Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/12/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-3140 represents a critical use-after-free flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer 9 that enables remote code execution through malicious web content. This vulnerability specifically targets the CMarkup object within the browser's rendering engine, creating a scenario where memory management errors can be exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized system access. The issue stems from improper handling of object lifecycles in the browser's memory management system, where a CMarkup object is freed from memory but continues to be referenced by subsequent operations, creating a dangerous state that can be manipulated by malicious actors.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a classic use-after-free condition that falls under CWE-416, which describes the use of memory after it has been freed. In Internet Explorer 9, when a web page contains malicious JavaScript code that manipulates the CMarkup object, the browser's memory management system may delete the object from memory while still maintaining references to it. Attackers can exploit this by crafting web content that triggers the deletion of the CMarkup object and then immediately executes code that attempts to access the freed memory location, potentially allowing them to inject and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the browser.
This vulnerability operates at the intersection of multiple attack vectors within the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically mapping to the T1059.007 technique for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript" and T1068 for "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation." The attack chain typically begins with a user visiting a malicious website that contains carefully crafted JavaScript code designed to trigger the memory management error. The exploitation process leverages the browser's scripting engine to manipulate object references and memory addresses, ultimately allowing attackers to execute malicious payloads that can range from simple browser compromise to full system takeover.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-3140 is severe and far-reaching, as it affects users of Internet Explorer 9 who may inadvertently visit compromised websites or be tricked into clicking malicious links. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires no user interaction beyond visiting a malicious site, making it an ideal candidate for drive-by download attacks and targeted phishing campaigns. Organizations with significant Internet Explorer 9 usage face substantial risk, as this vulnerability can be exploited to establish persistent backdoors, steal sensitive information, or deploy additional malware. The memory corruption aspect of the flaw means that exploitation can result in system instability, crashes, or complete system compromise depending on the attack vector and payload used.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of Internet Explorer 9 installations through Microsoft's security updates, as well as implementing browser hardening measures such as disabling unnecessary scripting features and employing sandboxing techniques. Network-level protections can be implemented through web application firewalls and content filtering systems that can detect and block known malicious patterns associated with this vulnerability. Security administrators should also consider implementing user education programs to raise awareness about the dangers of visiting untrusted websites and clicking suspicious links. Additionally, organizations should maintain comprehensive incident response plans that include procedures for detecting and responding to potential exploitation attempts, as well as regular vulnerability assessments to identify and remediate similar memory management issues in other software components. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper memory management practices in browser security and underscores the need for continuous security testing and code review processes.