CVE-2014-4091 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-2014-4080, CVE-2014-4089, and CVE-2014-4102.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/15/2022
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 issue stems from improper handling of memory structures 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 within the browser's memory management systems, leading to arbitrary code execution or system crashes. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and leverages the browser's JavaScript engine to manipulate memory addresses and execute malicious payloads directly within the user's context.
The technical implementation of this flaw involves the exploitation of memory management weaknesses in Internet Explorer's rendering engine, particularly affecting how the browser handles dynamic object allocation and deallocation. When a malicious web page loads, it can manipulate JavaScript objects in ways that cause the browser to write beyond allocated memory boundaries or access freed memory locations. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-476, which covers null pointer dereference scenarios. The attack surface is extensive since it only requires a user to visit a malicious website, making it particularly dangerous for phishing campaigns and drive-by download attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service to include complete system compromise. Successful exploitation can result in privilege escalation, allowing attackers to execute code with the same privileges as the user running Internet Explorer. This creates opportunities for persistent access, data exfiltration, and lateral movement within networks. The vulnerability's classification aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. Organizations using unpatched versions of IE 10 and 11 face significant risk of compromise, particularly in enterprise environments where browser-based attacks are common attack vectors.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patch deployment through Microsoft's security updates, which address the underlying memory management issues in the browser's JavaScript engine. Organizations should implement browser hardening measures such as disabling unnecessary JavaScript features, implementing content security policies, and using enhanced security configurations. Network-based protections like web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems can help detect and block malicious web content. Additionally, user education regarding safe browsing practices and the importance of keeping software updated remains critical. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of regular security maintenance and the risks associated with legacy browser support, as IE 10 and 11 were approaching end-of-life at the time of this vulnerability's disclosure.