CVE-2015-0050 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 8 and 9 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-2014-8967 and CVE-2015-0044.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/08/2024
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 8 and 9 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 system, allowing them to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the logged-in user. The vulnerability operates at the kernel level memory management functions and leverages the browser's JavaScript engine to manipulate memory pointers and execute malicious instructions. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of Stack-based Buffer Overflow and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript, demonstrating how web-based attacks can escalate to system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution to include potential system takeover and persistent access. When exploited, the memory corruption allows attackers to bypass standard security mechanisms including Data Execution Prevention and Address Space Layout Randomization. The vulnerability affects users running Internet Explorer 8 and 9 on Windows operating systems, with the attack surface expanding to include any web browsing activity that loads malicious content. The exploit typically requires user interaction through visiting a compromised website, making it particularly dangerous in phishing campaigns or compromised web portals. The memory corruption occurs during JavaScript object lifecycle management and can manifest as denial of service conditions or complete system compromise depending on the exploitation method used. This vulnerability represents a classic example of how browser-based memory corruption can lead to privilege escalation attacks.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patch deployment through Microsoft's security updates and comprehensive browser security hardening. Organizations should implement browser isolation techniques and restrict access to potentially malicious websites through content filtering solutions. The recommended approach includes disabling unnecessary browser features, implementing strict security policies, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments. Network segmentation and intrusion detection systems can help identify exploitation attempts by monitoring for suspicious web traffic patterns. Users should be educated about phishing risks and the importance of avoiding untrusted websites. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining current browser versions and implementing automated patch management systems. Security professionals should consider implementing web application firewalls and monitoring for exploitation indicators such as unusual memory allocation patterns or JavaScript execution anomalies. Regular security audits and penetration testing can help identify additional attack vectors that may exploit similar memory management weaknesses in the browser ecosystem.