CVE-2015-1731 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 10 and 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-2015-1736, CVE-2015-1737, and CVE-2015-1755.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/20/2022
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 10 and 11 that enables remote code execution through maliciously crafted web content. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of memory operations within the browser's rendering engine, specifically affecting how Internet Explorer processes certain web elements and objects in memory. Attackers can leverage this weakness by hosting malicious web pages that, when loaded in the affected browsers, trigger memory corruption conditions leading to arbitrary code execution or system crashes. The flaw operates at a fundamental level within the browser's memory management system, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited without user interaction beyond visiting a compromised website. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-125 as an out-of-bounds read condition, though it manifests as a broader memory corruption issue that can result in complete system compromise. The attack vector is primarily through web-based delivery, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1566 for initial access through spearphishing attachments or links, and T1059 for command and control through compromised browser sessions. The memory corruption occurs when Internet Explorer attempts to process malformed or specially crafted HTML elements, JavaScript objects, or ActiveX controls that exceed expected memory boundaries or manipulate memory structures in unexpected ways. This vulnerability is distinct from other related issues such as CVE-2015-1736, CVE-2015-1737, and CVE-2015-1755, which indicates it represents a unique code path within the browser's memory management subsystem. The impact extends beyond simple denial of service to full system compromise, as successful exploitation allows attackers to execute malicious code with the privileges of the logged-in user, potentially leading to complete system takeover and data exfiltration. Organizations running these affected versions of Internet Explorer face significant risk, particularly in enterprise environments where browser-based attacks remain a primary threat vector for malware delivery and persistent threats. The vulnerability's exploitation requires no special privileges or user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website, making it particularly effective for large-scale attacks. Security researchers have noted that this flaw demonstrates poor input validation and memory management practices within Internet Explorer's core architecture, highlighting the importance of robust memory safety mechanisms in browser implementations. The remediation strategy involves applying Microsoft's security patches and updates, while organizations should also implement network-based protections such as web application firewalls and browser hardening measures to reduce attack surface. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of keeping their browsers updated to protect against such memory corruption vulnerabilities that can lead to complete system compromise.