CVE-2015-2401 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 9 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-2015-1767 and CVE-2015-2408.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/31/2022
This vulnerability affects Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 9 through 11 and represents a critical memory corruption flaw that enables remote code execution or denial of service attacks. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of objects in memory during web page rendering processes, creating exploitable conditions that allow attackers to manipulate memory structures through maliciously crafted web content. The flaw specifically manifests when Internet Explorer processes certain JavaScript objects or DOM elements that trigger memory allocation and deallocation patterns susceptible to buffer overflow or use-after-free conditions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves exploitation of memory management functions within Internet Explorer's rendering engine, particularly affecting how the browser handles complex object hierarchies and memory references. Attackers can craft web pages containing malicious JavaScript code that triggers specific memory corruption scenarios, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the currently logged-on user. The vulnerability's classification as a memory corruption issue aligns with CWE-125, which addresses out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations that can lead to memory corruption.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risk to organizations as it can be exploited through standard web browsing activities without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website. The attack surface is extensive since Internet Explorer remains widely deployed across enterprise environments, particularly in legacy systems where browser updates may be delayed or restricted. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple exploitation to include potential privilege escalation scenarios, as successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute code with elevated system privileges, potentially leading to full system compromise.
The attack vector typically involves delivery of malicious content through phishing emails, compromised websites, or drive-by download scenarios where users visit infected web pages. This vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with the ATT&CK framework's T1203 technique for exploitation for privilege escalation and T1059 for execution through scripting languages. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including browser updates, security policy enforcement, and network-based protections such as web application firewalls to prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing defense-in-depth strategies that reduce the attack surface and limit potential exploitation success.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate deployment of Microsoft security updates, implementation of Internet Explorer security features such as Enhanced Protected Mode, and network segmentation to limit exposure. Security teams should also consider implementing content filtering solutions and user education programs to reduce the likelihood of successful exploitation through social engineering tactics. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of timely patch management and the inherent risks associated with legacy browser support in enterprise environments where security controls may not be adequately maintained.