CVE-2015-6044 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 8 allows remote attackers to gain privileges via a crafted web site, as demonstrated by a transition from Low Integrity to Medium Integrity, aka "Internet Explorer Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/20/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-6044 represents a critical elevation of privilege flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer 8 that enables remote attackers to escalate their security context from low integrity to medium integrity levels. This weakness specifically affects systems running Internet Explorer 8 and creates a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability exploits the browser's handling of security contexts and integrity levels during web page transitions, allowing attackers to bypass security restrictions that normally prevent low integrity processes from accessing protected system resources.
This flaw operates through a complex interaction between Internet Explorer's security model and the Windows integrity level system. When a user visits a malicious website, the vulnerability allows the attacker to manipulate the browser's execution context and transition the process from a low integrity level to a medium integrity level. This transition enables the attacker to perform actions that would normally be restricted, such as accessing protected registry keys, modifying system files, or executing privileged operations. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages the browser's legitimate security mechanisms while exploiting implementation gaps in how integrity transitions are handled.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with a foothold for more sophisticated attacks within the target system. Once an attacker successfully elevates privileges from low to medium integrity, they can leverage this access to install malware, modify system configurations, or exfiltrate sensitive data. The vulnerability affects Windows systems where Internet Explorer 8 is installed and is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where legacy browser support is maintained. The attack surface is broad since it can be triggered through standard web browsing activities, making it difficult to defend against through traditional network perimeter security measures.
Security researchers have classified this vulnerability under CWE-276, which describes improper privilege management, and it aligns with ATT&CK techniques related to privilege escalation and exploitation of software vulnerabilities. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including disabling Internet Explorer 8 support, applying Microsoft security patches, and implementing network segmentation to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date browser security and the risks associated with supporting legacy browser versions that may contain unpatched security flaws. Additionally, implementing security controls such as application whitelisting and enhanced browser security policies can help reduce the risk of exploitation in environments where legacy browser support remains necessary.