CVE-2014-4092 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 8 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-2014-4098.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/15/2022
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw affecting Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 8 through 11, classified under CWE-125 as out-of-bounds read conditions. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of memory structures during web page rendering processes, specifically when processing malformed or crafted web content that triggers buffer overflow conditions. Attackers can exploit this weakness by hosting malicious web content that, when loaded in affected IE versions, causes the browser to allocate or access memory beyond its intended boundaries. The flaw manifests as a heap-based buffer overflow or use-after-free condition that can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the logged-on user, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users may browse untrusted websites.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-4092 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and persistent access capabilities. When successfully exploited, the vulnerability allows attackers to gain arbitrary code execution within the context of the affected browser process, typically with medium integrity level privileges. This enables threat actors to install malware, modify system files, establish persistence mechanisms, or conduct further reconnaissance activities. The vulnerability's exploitation requires user interaction through web browsing, making it particularly effective in phishing campaigns or drive-by download scenarios where victims are tricked into visiting compromised websites. The memory corruption nature of the flaw means that the exploitation can also cause denial of service conditions, rendering the browser unstable or crashing the entire system.
Security professionals should recognize this vulnerability as part of the broader ATT&CK framework's T1203 - Exploitation for Client Execution and T1059 - Command and Scripting Interpreter techniques. The vulnerability aligns with the Common Exploitation Techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK matrix, where attackers leverage browser-based exploits to establish initial access vectors. Organizations should implement multiple layers of defense including regular patch management, browser hardening configurations, network-based protections, and user education programs. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of keeping browser software updated, as Microsoft released patches through their regular security update cycles. Network administrators should consider implementing web application firewalls and content filtering solutions to detect and block malicious web content before it reaches user systems, while endpoint protection solutions should be configured to monitor for suspicious process behaviors that may indicate exploitation attempts.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate deployment of Microsoft security patches, implementation of Internet Explorer lockdown policies, and disabling unnecessary browser features such as ActiveX controls and script execution for untrusted sites. Organizations should also consider implementing browser isolation techniques and virtualization solutions to contain potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the need for comprehensive vulnerability management programs that include regular security assessments, penetration testing, and continuous monitoring of systems for signs of compromise. Security teams should also implement incident response procedures specifically designed to handle browser-based exploitation attempts, including forensic analysis capabilities and rapid containment protocols to prevent lateral movement within compromised networks.