CVE-2015-0066 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-2015-0018, CVE-2015-0037, and CVE-2015-0040.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/08/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-0066 represents a critical memory corruption flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer 11 that enables remote code execution and denial of service attacks. This vulnerability specifically affects the browser's handling of certain web content, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit memory management issues within the browser's rendering engine. The flaw manifests when users visit malicious websites that contain specially crafted content designed to trigger the memory corruption condition. Unlike other vulnerabilities in the same CVE family such as CVE-2015-0018, CVE-2015-0037, and CVE-2015-0040, this particular issue demonstrates distinct characteristics in its exploitation methodology and impact scope. The vulnerability resides in the browser's JavaScript engine and memory management subsystem, where improper validation of user-supplied data leads to unpredictable memory behavior and potential code execution.
The technical exploitation of CVE-2015-0066 occurs through a sophisticated attack vector that leverages memory corruption techniques to gain control over the browser process. Attackers craft web pages containing malicious JavaScript or HTML content that triggers buffer overflows or use-after-free conditions within Internet Explorer's memory management. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities. These memory corruption issues typically arise when the browser fails to properly validate input data before processing it in memory, allowing attackers to manipulate memory layout and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the victim user. The attack can result in complete system compromise when successful, as the malicious code executes within the browser's trusted execution environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass significant security implications for enterprise environments and individual users. Organizations running Internet Explorer 11 are particularly at risk as this vulnerability affects a widely deployed browser version that many enterprises continue to use for legacy applications. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to persistent malware installation, data exfiltration, and complete system takeover. From an operational perspective, the vulnerability's impact is amplified by the browser's deep integration with Windows operating systems and enterprise applications, making it a prime target for advanced persistent threat actors. The vulnerability also affects user productivity and organizational security posture, as successful exploitation can result in extended periods of unauthorized access and potential data breaches.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-0066 should encompass multiple defensive layers including immediate patch deployment, browser hardening, and network-based protections. Microsoft released security updates addressing this vulnerability through regular security bulletins, requiring organizations to maintain up-to-date patch management processes. Browser isolation techniques such as running Internet Explorer in restricted environments or using sandboxing mechanisms provide additional protection layers. Network security controls including web application firewalls and content filtering systems can help detect and block malicious content before it reaches vulnerable browsers. The implementation of the principle of least privilege and user education regarding safe browsing practices further reduces exploitation risk. Organizations should also consider implementing endpoint detection and response solutions to identify potential exploitation attempts and monitor for anomalous behavior patterns associated with memory corruption attacks. These defensive measures align with ATT&CK framework techniques related to defense evasion and privilege escalation, providing comprehensive protection against this and similar memory corruption vulnerabilities.