CVE-2016-0112 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 9 through 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-2016-0105, CVE-2016-0107, CVE-2016-0111, and CVE-2016-0113.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/09/2022
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 9 through 11 that enables remote code execution through malicious web content. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of memory operations during web page rendering, specifically affecting how the browser processes certain JavaScript objects and memory structures. Attackers can craft specially designed web pages that trigger heap corruption when the affected browser attempts to render or execute specific JavaScript code patterns. The flaw exists in the browser's scripting engine and memory management subsystem, creating opportunities for arbitrary code execution or system crashes that can lead to denial of service conditions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves manipulating JavaScript objects in ways that cause memory corruption during the browser's memory allocation and deallocation processes. When Internet Explorer encounters crafted web content, particularly involving complex object manipulation or memory operations, it fails to properly validate memory boundaries or object references. This leads to memory corruption that can be exploited to overwrite critical memory locations or execute malicious code within the browser's memory space. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-125 as an out-of-bounds read condition and is related to improper memory management practices that violate standard security principles. The flaw specifically affects the browser's handling of JavaScript objects and can be triggered through various attack vectors including dynamic object creation, memory allocation patterns, and object reference manipulation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple exploitation as it affects a broad user base given the widespread deployment of Internet Explorer versions 9 through 11 across enterprise environments and consumer systems. Organizations running legacy systems that have not been updated to newer browser versions remain at significant risk, as these browsers continue to be used in corporate networks despite their end-of-life status. The vulnerability can be exploited through drive-by downloads, malicious websites, or compromised web applications that deliver the crafted payloads to unsuspecting users. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain full system control, execute arbitrary code, or cause persistent denial of service conditions that can disrupt business operations and compromise sensitive data. The attack surface is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where older browsers may be required for legacy application compatibility.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate defensive measures and long-term remediation efforts. Microsoft released security updates that patched the memory corruption issue through improved memory validation and object handling within the browser's JavaScript engine. Organizations should prioritize immediate deployment of Microsoft Security Bulletins MS16-001 and subsequent patches to protect their systems from exploitation. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls, content filtering systems, and browser security policies can provide layered defense against exploitation attempts. Security configurations should include disabling unnecessary browser features, implementing strict content security policies, and using sandboxing techniques to limit the impact of potential exploitation. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date software systems and following security best practices such as those recommended in the MITRE ATT&CK framework for browser-based attacks. Organizations should also implement regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate similar memory corruption vulnerabilities in their IT infrastructure.