CVE-2013-3207 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-2013-3201, CVE-2013-3203, CVE-2013-3206, 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 allocation and deallocation during web page rendering processes, creating exploitable conditions that adversaries can leverage to gain unauthorized system access. The flaw specifically manifests when Internet Explorer processes malformed or crafted web content that triggers memory corruption during object manipulation or script execution. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-125 vulnerability category, which encompasses out-of-bounds read errors that can lead to memory corruption and arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the browser level where user interactions with web content are normal and expected, making exploitation both stealthy and effective.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a malicious web page contains specially crafted HTML, JavaScript, or ActiveX content that triggers memory corruption within Internet Explorer's rendering engine. Attackers can construct web pages that manipulate memory pointers or buffer boundaries in ways that cause the browser to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the logged-in user. The memory corruption typically happens during the processing of complex web elements such as dynamic content, script objects, or multimedia components. This vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution flaw under the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically mapping to the T1059 technique for command and scripting interpreter. The attack vector relies on social engineering to deliver the malicious content to target systems, often through phishing emails, compromised websites, or malicious advertisements.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to include potential system compromise and data theft. Once successfully exploited, attackers can install malware, modify system files, establish persistence mechanisms, or escalate privileges to gain administrative control over affected systems. The vulnerability affects organizations that continue to use legacy Internet Explorer versions, particularly in enterprise environments where browser compatibility requirements may prevent immediate upgrades. Organizations with extensive Internet Explorer usage face significant risk exposure, as the vulnerability can be exploited through legitimate web browsing activities without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious site. The memory corruption aspect of this vulnerability makes detection challenging for traditional security tools since the corruption may not immediately manifest as a system crash, allowing attackers to maintain persistent access.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation through Microsoft security updates and patches that address the underlying memory handling flaws. Organizations should implement browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary browser features, implementing content security policies, and restricting access to potentially malicious websites through web filtering solutions. The use of modern browser alternatives such as Microsoft Edge, Chrome, or Firefox is strongly recommended to avoid exposure to Internet Explorer-specific vulnerabilities. Network-based protections should include intrusion detection systems that monitor for known exploit signatures and anomalous web traffic patterns. Additionally, user education programs should emphasize the importance of avoiding suspicious websites and email attachments. Security teams should also consider implementing exploit prevention technologies and maintaining updated threat intelligence feeds to identify new variants or related vulnerabilities that may target the same attack surface. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date software and implementing defense-in-depth strategies to protect against zero-day exploits that target legacy browser components.