CVE-2015-6079 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 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-2015-6068, CVE-2015-6072, CVE-2015-6073, CVE-2015-6075, CVE-2015-6077, CVE-2015-6080, and CVE-2015-6082.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/27/2022
Microsoft Internet Explorer 11 contains a critical memory corruption vulnerability that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause denial of service when users visit malicious websites. This vulnerability represents a significant security flaw in the browser's handling of memory management during web page rendering and script execution processes. The issue specifically affects Internet Explorer 11 on Windows 7, Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows 8, Windows Server 2012, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012 R2, Windows 10, and Windows Server 2016 operating systems. The vulnerability stems from improper validation of memory operations when processing specially crafted web content, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate memory addresses and execute malicious instructions.
The technical flaw manifests when Internet Explorer processes malformed or malicious web content that triggers improper memory handling within the browser's JavaScript engine or rendering components. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by hosting malicious web pages that contain specially crafted code designed to corrupt memory structures, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the logged-in user. The memory corruption occurs during normal browsing operations when the browser attempts to allocate, reallocate, or free memory blocks that are subsequently accessed inappropriately by malicious code. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-125 Out-of-bounds Read category, where the browser reads memory beyond its allocated boundaries, and also relates to CWE-787 Out-of-bounds Write conditions that can lead to memory corruption.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to include potential system compromise and denial of service scenarios. Successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise where attackers gain the ability to install malware, modify system files, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects enterprise environments where users frequently access the internet and may inadvertently visit compromised websites or be targeted through phishing campaigns. Organizations running Internet Explorer 11 are particularly at risk as this vulnerability can be exploited through standard web browsing activities without requiring any special user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website. The vulnerability's similarity to other Internet Explorer flaws from the same timeframe indicates a broader pattern of memory management issues within the browser's codebase that require comprehensive remediation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate deployment of Microsoft security updates and patches that address the specific memory corruption issue in Internet Explorer 11. Organizations should implement browser hardening measures such as disabling unnecessary browser features, implementing enhanced security zones, and using application whitelisting to restrict access to potentially malicious content. The use of modern security frameworks aligned with the ATT&CK methodology recommends implementing multiple defensive layers including network monitoring for suspicious web traffic, endpoint detection and response systems, and user education programs to reduce the risk of successful exploitation. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing browser isolation techniques and transitioning to more secure modern browsers that have better memory management and security features. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify systems running vulnerable versions of Internet Explorer and ensure timely patch deployment. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing comprehensive browser security policies as part of overall enterprise cybersecurity strategies.