CVE-2016-0147 in XML Core Services
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft XML Core Services 3.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted web site, aka "MSXML 3.0 Remote Code Execution Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/03/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-0147 affects Microsoft XML Core Services 3.0, a component that provides XML parsing and processing capabilities within Windows operating systems. This flaw represents a critical remote code execution vulnerability that can be exploited by attackers through maliciously crafted web content, making it particularly dangerous in web-based attack scenarios. The vulnerability resides in how MSXML handles certain XML data structures, specifically when processing malformed or specially constructed XML documents that trigger memory corruption conditions within the XML parser engine.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a buffer overflow condition that manifests when MSXML 3.0 processes crafted XML content containing malformed elements or attributes. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and memory management within the XML parsing routines, allowing attackers to manipulate memory locations and ultimately execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, which represents a fundamental memory safety issue where data written to a buffer exceeds its allocated size, potentially overwriting adjacent memory locations. The attack vector typically involves hosting malicious XML content on a web server or embedding it within other web-based documents that trigger automatic parsing by the vulnerable MSXML component.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-0147 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a powerful foothold for further compromise within affected systems. Since MSXML 3.0 is integrated into many Windows applications and services, successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or deployment of additional malware. The vulnerability affects multiple Windows versions including Windows 7, Windows Server 2008, and other systems running the vulnerable XML Core Services component. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability through various delivery mechanisms including phishing emails, malicious websites, or compromised web applications that trigger automatic XML parsing. The exploitation process typically requires minimal user interaction since modern browsers and applications automatically process XML content without explicit user consent, making this vulnerability particularly effective for widespread attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-0147 should include immediate patching of affected systems through Microsoft security updates, which address the underlying buffer overflow conditions in MSXML 3.0. Organizations should also implement network-based protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering solutions that can detect and block malicious XML content. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual XML processing activities and potential exploitation attempts through network traffic analysis. Additionally, system hardening measures including disabling unnecessary XML processing capabilities and restricting web browser access to potentially malicious content can reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 as it enables adversaries to gain initial access and establish persistence through remote code execution, while also supporting lateral movement and privilege escalation activities. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify systems running vulnerable versions of MSXML, particularly in enterprise environments where legacy applications may not have received timely updates.