CVE-2014-2771 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 10 and 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-2014-1772, CVE-2014-1780, CVE-2014-1794, CVE-2014-1797, CVE-2014-1802, CVE-2014-2756, CVE-2014-2763, CVE-2014-2764, and CVE-2014-2769.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/24/2025
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 10 and 11 that enables remote code execution through malicious web content. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of memory operations within the browser's rendering engine, specifically affecting how Internet Explorer processes certain web elements and JavaScript objects. Attackers can craft specially designed web pages that trigger memory corruption when the browser attempts to render or execute malicious code, creating a pathway for arbitrary code execution on vulnerable systems. The flaw operates at a fundamental level within the browser's memory management system, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited without user interaction beyond visiting a malicious 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 classifications indicate that the vulnerability occurs when the browser attempts to access memory locations outside the bounds of allocated memory regions, leading to unpredictable behavior including code execution or system crashes. The attack vector leverages the browser's JavaScript engine and rendering capabilities, where malformed or specially crafted web content triggers buffer overflows or memory corruption that can be leveraged to execute malicious payloads. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1203, specifically targeting web browsers through memory corruption exploits.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it affects a widely deployed browser version with extensive user base, making it an attractive target for cybercriminals and nation-state actors. Successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise, allowing attackers to install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent access to affected systems. Organizations running these browser versions face significant risk since the vulnerability can be exploited through drive-by downloads, malicious advertisements, or compromised websites without requiring any user interaction beyond visiting the malicious page. The vulnerability's similarity to other IE memory corruption issues from the same timeframe suggests a systemic problem in the browser's memory management architecture that required comprehensive patching across multiple affected versions.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate patch deployment through Microsoft's regular security updates, as the vulnerability was addressed through security patches released in the corresponding monthly update cycle. Organizations should implement additional security layers including browser hardening measures, network-based protections, and user education about safe browsing practices. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining current security patches and implementing defense-in-depth strategies to protect against similar memory corruption exploits that may target other browser components or system applications. Security teams should monitor for indicators of compromise related to this vulnerability and ensure that all affected systems receive timely updates to prevent exploitation attempts.