CVE-2013-3201 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 9 and 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-2013-3203, CVE-2013-3206, CVE-2013-3207, and CVE-2013-3209.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/24/2021
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 9 and 10 that enables remote code execution through malicious web content. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of memory operations during web page rendering, specifically when processing certain JavaScript objects and DOM elements. Attackers can craft specially designed web pages that trigger buffer overflows or use-after-free conditions in the browser's memory management system, allowing them to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the logged-in user. The flaw operates at the core level of the browser's JavaScript engine, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through standard web browsing activities without requiring any special user interaction beyond visiting a compromised website.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations. These memory corruption issues typically manifest when the browser's memory allocator fails to properly validate input data from web pages, particularly in scenarios involving dynamic object creation and manipulation. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects the browser's core rendering engine, specifically the JavaScriptCore or Chakra engine components that handle script execution. When exploited, the memory corruption can lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to install malware, steal sensitive data, or maintain persistent access to the compromised system.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risk to organizations as it can be exploited through drive-by downloads, malicious advertisements, or compromised websites that users might visit innocently. The exploitability is high because it requires no user interaction beyond visiting a malicious site, making it particularly dangerous in targeted attacks or when users browse untrusted web content. The vulnerability affects both Windows 7 and Windows 8 operating systems when using Internet Explorer 9 or 10, creating a wide attack surface for threat actors. Security researchers have noted that the vulnerability can be chained with other exploits to create more sophisticated attack vectors, potentially bypassing modern security mitigations such as DEP and ASLR.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate application of Microsoft's security patches, which address the memory corruption issues through improved input validation and memory management routines. Organizations should implement browser hardening measures such as disabling unnecessary browser features, restricting ActiveX controls, and implementing strict content filtering policies. Network-level defenses including web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts. Additionally, users should be educated about safe browsing practices and the importance of keeping their browsers updated. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing defense-in-depth strategies to protect against zero-day exploits that target browser components. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving exploitation of known vulnerabilities and privilege escalation through browser-based attacks, making it a significant concern for enterprise security teams.