CVE-2013-3151 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 8 through 10 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (memory corruption) via a crafted web site, aka "Internet Explorer Memory Corruption Vulnerability," a different vulnerability than CVE-2013-3144 and CVE-2013-3163.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/25/2025
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 8 through 10 that enables remote code execution attacks. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of memory structures during web page rendering, specifically when processing certain JavaScript objects and DOM elements. Attackers can craft malicious websites that trigger memory corruption conditions when users visit these sites, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the current user. The flaw exists in the browser's scripting engine and memory management subsystem, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through standard web browsing activities without requiring any additional user interaction beyond visiting the compromised website.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves heap corruption techniques that manipulate memory pointers and object references within Internet Explorer's memory space. When the browser processes malformed JavaScript code or specially crafted HTML elements, it fails to properly validate memory boundaries, leading to buffer overflows or use-after-free conditions. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations. The memory corruption occurs during the execution of JavaScript code, particularly when dealing with object properties and array manipulations that exceed allocated memory boundaries. Attackers can leverage this flaw to overwrite critical memory locations and redirect program execution flow to malicious code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution to include potential system compromise and data theft. Successful exploitation can allow attackers to install malware, modify system files, or establish persistent backdoors on affected systems. The vulnerability affects a broad range of Windows operating systems including Windows 7, Windows Server 2008, and Windows Vista, making it particularly dangerous for enterprise environments where these browsers are commonly used. Organizations running Internet Explorer 8 through 10 are at risk of targeted attacks, especially in environments where users frequently browse untrusted websites or receive phishing emails containing malicious links. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website, making it highly effective for social engineering campaigns.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patch deployment through Microsoft's security updates, which address the underlying memory corruption issues in the browser's JavaScript engine. Organizations should implement browser hardening measures such as disabling unnecessary browser features, enabling enhanced security zones, and configuring automatic updates for Internet Explorer. Network-level protections including web application firewalls and content filtering systems can help detect and block malicious traffic associated with exploitation attempts. Security teams should also consider implementing browser isolation techniques and mandatory upgrade policies to ensure all users transition to supported browser versions. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing defense-in-depth strategies as outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework's methodology for defending against browser-based attacks and exploitation techniques.