CVE-2015-2413 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 through 11 allows remote attackers to determine the existence of local files via a crafted module-resource request, aka "Internet Explorer Information Disclosure Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/29/2024
This vulnerability resides in Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 6 through 11 and represents a significant information disclosure flaw that enables remote attackers to determine whether specific local files exist on a target system. The vulnerability stems from how Internet Explorer processes module-resource requests, specifically when handling certain resource identifiers that reference local file paths. Attackers can craft malicious web pages that attempt to load resources using module-resource syntax, which causes the browser to perform local file system checks. When the requested local file exists, the browser behaves differently than when the file is absent, creating observable differences in the response that can be leveraged to infer file existence. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-200 category of "Information Exposure" and specifically relates to CWE-1234 which addresses information disclosure through resource access patterns. The flaw operates at the application layer and exploits the browser's handling of local file system access through web-based interfaces, creating a pathway for attackers to map local file structures without direct system access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file enumeration, as it provides attackers with valuable reconnaissance data that can be used to build more sophisticated attack vectors. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can map local file system structures, potentially identifying sensitive files such as configuration data, temporary files, or system binaries that may contain exploitable information. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects multiple versions of Internet Explorer, including older versions that may still be in use within enterprise environments where legacy system support persists. This creates a broad attack surface that can be exploited against various organizational targets, especially those with outdated browser deployments. The information disclosure occurs during normal web browsing operations, making it difficult to detect through standard network monitoring tools. The attack requires only a web page delivered to the target system, typically through social engineering or phishing campaigns, making it particularly dangerous in targeted attack scenarios.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. Microsoft released patches for this vulnerability in their regular security updates, and organizations should ensure all affected Internet Explorer versions are updated to the latest security patches. Browser security settings can be adjusted to restrict local file system access, though this may impact legitimate web application functionality. Network-based mitigations include implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious module-resource requests, and deploying content filtering solutions that can identify potentially malicious web content. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and resource handling in web browsers, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and script injection. Organizations should also consider implementing browser isolation solutions or using more secure browser alternatives that do not exhibit this behavior. Additionally, user education and awareness programs should emphasize the dangers of visiting untrusted websites, as this vulnerability is primarily exploited through malicious web content delivery. The incident highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of web browsers, particularly in how they handle local file system interactions through web-based interfaces, and reinforces the principle that browser security is a critical component of overall enterprise security posture.