CVE-2015-2402 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 through 11 allows remote attackers to gain privileges via a crafted web site, aka "Internet Explorer Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/29/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-2402 represents a critical elevation of privilege flaw affecting Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 7 through 11. This security weakness enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges on affected systems, potentially allowing full system compromise. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of memory objects during web page rendering processes, creating a pathway for malicious actors to escalate their access rights from standard user level to administrator level. The flaw specifically manifests when Internet Explorer processes specially crafted web content that triggers memory corruption issues within the browser's memory management subsystem.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability leverages memory corruption techniques that allow attackers to manipulate the browser's execution flow and execute malicious code with higher privileges than initially granted. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-119 category of "Improper Access to Memory Location" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which describes "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation." The flaw exists in the way Internet Explorer handles certain JavaScript objects and memory allocations, particularly when processing complex web content that includes malicious scripts designed to exploit the memory management inconsistencies. Attackers typically craft malicious web pages that, when loaded in the vulnerable browser, trigger the memory corruption and subsequently execute payload code with elevated privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple browser compromise, as successful exploitation can result in complete system takeover and persistent access for attackers. Organizations running affected Internet Explorer versions face significant risk of data breaches, malware deployment, and unauthorized system access. The vulnerability affects a broad range of Windows operating systems including Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows Server 2008, and Windows Server 2012, making it particularly dangerous for enterprise environments. Security teams must consider that this vulnerability could be exploited in phishing campaigns, drive-by downloads, or through compromised websites that deliver malicious content to unsuspecting users. The elevated privilege access granted through exploitation allows attackers to bypass standard security controls, install backdoors, modify system files, and potentially establish persistent access to networks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-2402 primarily involve immediate patch deployment through Microsoft's security updates, which address the underlying memory corruption issues in Internet Explorer's rendering engine. Organizations should implement browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary browser features, implementing strict content security policies, and using enhanced security configurations. Network defenders should consider deploying web application firewalls and implementing browser isolation techniques to prevent exploitation attempts. Additionally, user education programs should emphasize the importance of avoiding suspicious websites and keeping browsers updated. The vulnerability also highlights the need for regular security assessments and vulnerability management processes to identify and remediate similar issues before they can be exploited in the wild. Microsoft recommends immediate deployment of the security update and implementation of additional protective measures including disabling ActiveX controls and implementing strict Internet Explorer security zones.