CVE-2015-2441 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 through 11 and Edge allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (memory corruption) via a crafted web site, aka "Memory Corruption Vulnerability," a different vulnerability than CVE-2015-2452.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/08/2022
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw affecting Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 7 through 11 and Microsoft Edge browser implementations. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of memory allocation and deallocation during web page rendering processes, creating exploitable conditions that allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The flaw manifests when Internet Explorer encounters specifically crafted web content that triggers memory corruption during normal browsing operations, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-125 as "Out-of-bounds Read" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter execution. The memory corruption occurs in the browser's rendering engine where malformed web elements cause buffer overflows or use-after-free conditions, enabling attackers to manipulate memory contents and inject malicious code. The vulnerability affects all supported versions of Internet Explorer from version 7 through 11, as well as the Edge browser implementation, making it particularly dangerous given the widespread adoption of these browsers. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by hosting malicious web content that, when loaded in the affected browser, triggers the memory corruption and allows remote code execution. The impact extends beyond simple code execution to include potential denial of service conditions where the browser crashes or becomes unstable, disrupting normal user operations. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal user interaction, typically involving visiting a compromised website, making it particularly effective for drive-by download attacks. Organizations should consider implementing browser hardening measures, including disabling unnecessary browser features, implementing strict content security policies, and maintaining up-to-date security patches. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper memory management in web browsers and demonstrates how seemingly minor implementation flaws can lead to significant security risks. Microsoft addressed this vulnerability through security updates that corrected the memory handling routines and implemented additional safeguards against similar memory corruption scenarios. The flaw underscores the necessity of robust input validation and memory safety practices in browser development, aligning with industry best practices for secure coding and defensive programming techniques. Organizations must ensure timely patch deployment and consider implementing browser isolation techniques to limit the potential impact of such vulnerabilities in their environments. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in securing complex software systems and the critical need for continuous security assessments and updates in enterprise environments.