CVE-2014-4132 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 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-2014-4130 and CVE-2014-4138.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/22/2022
Microsoft Internet Explorer 11 contains a critical memory corruption vulnerability that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause denial of service conditions through maliciously crafted web content. This vulnerability specifically affects the browser's handling of memory allocation and management during web page rendering processes, creating a path for attackers to manipulate memory structures and potentially gain unauthorized system access. The flaw represents a distinct issue from related vulnerabilities CVE-2014-4130 and CVE-2014-4138, indicating separate code paths and exploitation mechanisms within the browser's architecture. The vulnerability operates at the core level of Internet Explorer's rendering engine where memory operations are processed, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through normal web browsing activities without requiring any special privileges or user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website.
The technical implementation of this memory corruption vulnerability stems from improper handling of memory allocation during JavaScript execution and object manipulation within the browser's memory space. Attackers can craft specific web pages that trigger buffer overflows or use after free conditions, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited to execute malicious code with the privileges of the current user. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations. The memory corruption occurs when Internet Explorer fails to properly validate memory boundaries during object creation and manipulation, allowing attackers to overwrite critical memory locations and redirect program execution flow. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be leveraged through social engineering attacks where users are tricked into visiting compromised websites, making it a significant threat vector in targeted attack campaigns.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to include potential system compromise and persistent access. When successfully exploited, the vulnerability allows attackers to gain arbitrary code execution privileges, potentially enabling them to install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish backdoors on affected systems. The denial of service component of the vulnerability can also be leveraged to disrupt legitimate user activities by crashing the browser or system processes. Organizations using Internet Explorer 11 are particularly at risk as this vulnerability affects a widely deployed browser version that many enterprises continue to support. The attack surface is broad since the vulnerability can be triggered through standard web browsing activities, making it difficult to defend against through traditional network security measures alone. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability represents a significant risk to enterprise environments where users frequently access external websites and may encounter malicious content through various attack vectors.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate deployment of Microsoft security patches and updates, which address the underlying memory management flaws in Internet Explorer 11. Organizations should implement browser hardening measures such as disabling unnecessary browser features, implementing strict content security policies, and using sandboxing techniques to limit the potential impact of successful exploits. Network-based protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block malicious web content targeting this vulnerability. Users should be educated about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and should avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown attachments. Additionally, implementing the principle of least privilege and maintaining up-to-date antivirus signatures can provide additional layers of defense. Organizations should also consider transitioning away from Internet Explorer to more modern browsers that have better security track records and more frequent security updates. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK framework as part of the T1203 - Exploitation for Client Execution tactic demonstrates the threat's potential to be used in broader attack chains targeting enterprise environments.