CVE-2015-0036 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 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-2015-0017, CVE-2015-0020, CVE-2015-0022, CVE-2015-0026, CVE-2015-0030, CVE-2015-0031, and CVE-2015-0041.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/09/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-0036 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 6 through 11, exposing users to significant security risks. This vulnerability falls under the broader category of heap-based buffer overflow conditions that can be exploited through malicious web content. The flaw specifically manifests when Internet Explorer processes specially crafted web pages, creating opportunities for attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems or induce denial of service conditions. The vulnerability's classification as a memory corruption issue aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. Such vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous because they can be triggered through routine web browsing activities, making them ideal for drive-by download attacks and social engineering campaigns.
The technical exploitation of CVE-2015-0036 occurs when Internet Explorer encounters malformed or malicious content within web pages, particularly in JavaScript or ActiveX components that trigger memory allocation errors. Attackers can craft web pages containing specially designed data structures that cause the browser's memory management functions to behave unpredictably, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged to execute malicious code with the privileges of the currently logged-on user. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple code execution to include potential privilege escalation scenarios, where attackers might gain system-level access through carefully constructed exploitation payloads. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects multiple versions of Internet Explorer, spanning a decade of browser releases and encompassing both legacy and modern versions, making it a persistent threat across various deployment environments.
The operational implications of this vulnerability are severe for organizations relying on Internet Explorer for business operations or web-based applications. Attackers can leverage this flaw to establish persistent access to compromised systems, potentially leading to data breaches, lateral movement within network environments, and establishment of command and control channels. The vulnerability's designation as a remote code execution flaw places it within the ATT&CK framework's technique T1059 for command and control communications and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. Organizations with legacy systems running unsupported versions of Internet Explorer face particular risk, as these systems may not receive security updates and are more susceptible to exploitation. The vulnerability's similarity to other CVE-2015-00xx series issues demonstrates a pattern of memory corruption flaws affecting the browser's rendering engine, suggesting potential systemic weaknesses in how Internet Explorer handles memory allocation for web content processing.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-0036 primarily focus on immediate remediation through security patches provided by Microsoft, though organizations must also implement additional protective measures to reduce exposure risk. The recommended approach involves deploying Microsoft's security updates and ensuring all Internet Explorer installations are current with the latest security patches. Organizations should also consider implementing browser isolation techniques, network segmentation, and enhanced web filtering solutions to prevent access to potentially malicious websites. The vulnerability's nature makes it particularly suitable for exploitation through phishing campaigns, making user education and awareness programs essential components of the overall security posture. Additionally, organizations should consider migrating away from Internet Explorer to more modern browsers that receive regular security updates and have better security architectures, such as Microsoft Edge or other browser alternatives that are actively maintained and supported by their vendors.