CVE-2014-0274 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 9 through 11 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-2014-0270, CVE-2014-0273, and CVE-2014-0288.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/19/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-0274 represents a critical memory corruption flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 9 through 11 that enables remote code execution and denial of service attacks. This vulnerability specifically affects the browser's handling of memory operations when processing crafted web content, creating a pathway for malicious actors to compromise systems through web-based attacks. The flaw operates within the browser's rendering engine and memory management subsystems, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through standard web browsing activities without requiring any special privileges or user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper memory handling during the processing of web content, particularly when dealing with certain JavaScript objects and memory allocation patterns. When Internet Explorer encounters malformed or specially crafted web elements, the browser's memory management routines fail to properly validate input data, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged by attackers to execute arbitrary code within the context of the user's session. This memory corruption typically manifests through heap-based buffer overflows or use-after-free conditions that allow attackers to overwrite critical memory locations and redirect program execution flow.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-0274 extends beyond simple remote code execution to include potential system compromise and persistent access capabilities. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish backdoor access to affected systems. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-125 indicates it involves an out-of-bounds read condition, while its relationship to the broader ATT&CK framework places it within the initial access and execution phases of the kill chain. Organizations running affected versions of Internet Explorer face significant risk as this vulnerability can be exploited through drive-by downloads, malicious advertisements, or compromised websites that automatically execute malicious code when loaded in the browser.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected systems with Microsoft's security updates, as well as network-level defenses such as web application firewalls and content filtering solutions. Organizations should implement browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary browser features, implementing strict security policies, and deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's presence in multiple IE versions from 9 through 11 necessitates comprehensive patch management across all affected platforms, while security teams should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify systems that may remain unpatched. Additionally, user education regarding safe browsing practices and awareness of social engineering tactics that might accompany such exploits remains crucial in defending against this particular threat vector that represents a significant risk to enterprise security infrastructure.