CVE-2015-6151 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 8 through 11 and Microsoft Edge allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (memory corruption) via a crafted web site, aka "Microsoft Browser Memory Corruption Vulnerability," a different vulnerability than CVE-2015-6083.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/29/2022
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw affecting Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 8 through 11 and Microsoft Edge browsers. The issue stems from improper handling of memory operations within the browser's rendering engine, specifically when processing malformed web content. Attackers can craft malicious websites that trigger buffer overflows or use after free conditions in the browser's memory management systems. These vulnerabilities typically occur when the browser fails to properly validate input data or properly manage memory allocation and deallocation processes during web page rendering. The flaw allows remote threat actors to inject malicious code into the browser's memory space, potentially leading to complete system compromise through privilege escalation attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability leverages typical memory corruption patterns found in browser engines, particularly affecting the JavaScript engine and HTML parser components. When a user visits a malicious website, the browser processes the crafted content in a way that overflows allocated memory buffers or accesses freed memory locations. This behavior aligns with common CWE classifications including CWE-121 for stack-based buffer overflow and CWE-122 for heap-based buffer overflow, as well as CWE-416 for use after free conditions. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including malicious scripts, embedded objects, or specially crafted HTML elements that trigger the faulty memory handling code paths.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-6151 extends beyond simple remote code execution to include potential system compromise and denial of service scenarios. Successful exploitation can result in arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the logged-in user, potentially allowing attackers to install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects both desktop and mobile browser implementations, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where multiple browser versions may be in use. Organizations running affected browser versions face significant risk of targeted attacks, as the vulnerability can be leveraged in phishing campaigns or drive-by download scenarios without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize immediate patch deployment through Microsoft's security updates, as the company released comprehensive fixes for all affected browser versions. System administrators should implement browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary browser features, implementing strict content security policies, and deploying web application firewalls to filter malicious content. Network-level defenses such as intrusion detection systems and web proxies can help detect and block exploitation attempts by monitoring for characteristic traffic patterns associated with memory corruption attacks. Additionally, user education programs should emphasize the importance of avoiding untrusted websites and keeping browser software updated. Organizations should also consider implementing browser sandboxing technologies and privilege separation mechanisms to limit the potential damage from successful exploitation attempts, aligning with ATT&CK framework techniques that focus on privilege escalation and persistence.