CVE-2015-0067 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 through 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."
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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 6 through 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 HTML elements and JavaScript code. Attackers can craft malicious websites that trigger buffer overflows or heap corruption conditions when IE attempts to parse and render the malformed content. The vulnerability operates at the core rendering engine level where IE's HTML parser and script engine interact with memory management functions, creating opportunities for arbitrary code execution or system crashes. This flaw falls under CWE-121, heap-based buffer overflow, and CWE-125, out-of-bounds read, demonstrating the intersection of memory management issues that can be exploited by remote adversaries.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-0067 extends beyond simple exploitation to encompass widespread system compromise across multiple Windows versions. Attackers typically leverage this vulnerability through spear-phishing campaigns or compromised websites that deliver malicious payloads when users visit the crafted pages. The memory corruption occurs during normal browsing operations, making detection difficult and exploitation relatively straightforward for threat actors. The vulnerability's persistence across IE versions 6 through 9 indicates a fundamental flaw in the browser's memory handling architecture that was not adequately addressed through patches. This creates a significant risk for organizations still using legacy IE versions, as the exploitation can lead to complete system compromise without user interaction beyond visiting a malicious site.
Security researchers have documented this vulnerability as part of the broader ATT&CK framework's T1203 technique for exploitation of remote services, where Internet Explorer serves as the initial access vector. The memory corruption aspect aligns with T1059 for command and scripting interpreter usage, as successful exploitation typically results in the execution of malicious code within the browser context. Organizations affected by this vulnerability often experience cascading security issues as attackers use the initial compromise to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and move laterally within networks. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal user interaction, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users may inadvertently access compromised websites through normal browsing activities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-0067 focus on immediate browser updates and security hardening measures. Microsoft released patches through Windows Update that addressed the memory corruption issues, but organizations must ensure complete deployment across all affected systems. Additional protective measures include implementing browser security features such as Internet Explorer's Enhanced Security Configuration, disabling unnecessary browser plugins, and deploying web application firewalls to filter malicious content. Network-based mitigations involve implementing content filtering solutions and monitoring for suspicious web traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Security teams should also consider implementing user education programs to reduce the risk of accidental exposure through social engineering attacks that leverage this vulnerability. The remediation process requires careful planning due to the age of affected IE versions and potential compatibility issues with legacy applications that may depend on these older browser versions.