CVE-2016-0160 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 11 mishandles DLL loading, which allows local users to gain privileges via a crafted application, aka "DLL Loading Remote Code Execution Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/14/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-0160 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer 11 that stems from improper handling of dynamic link library (DLL) loading mechanisms. This vulnerability specifically affects Windows operating systems where Internet Explorer 11 is installed, creating a pathway for local attackers to elevate their privileges from standard user level to system level access. The flaw exploits the manner in which the browser resolves and loads DLL files during normal operation, particularly when processing web content that may contain maliciously crafted references to system libraries.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the insecure DLL loading behavior within Internet Explorer 11's execution environment. When the browser processes certain web content, it may attempt to load DLL files from predictable locations in the file system without proper validation of the source or integrity of these libraries. This behavior creates an opportunity for malicious actors to place specially crafted DLL files in directories that are searched first during the loading process, effectively allowing them to inject code that executes with the privileges of the target process. This issue aligns with CWE-427, which describes uncontrolled search path evaluation, and specifically relates to CWE-74, which addresses injection flaws in the context of dynamic loading of libraries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it enables local privilege escalation attacks that can result in complete system compromise. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can execute arbitrary code with system-level privileges, potentially allowing them to install malicious software, modify system files, access sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors. The attack vector requires local access to the target system, meaning an attacker must already have a foothold or be able to execute code in the context of a standard user account. However, once exploited, the privilege escalation provides the attacker with complete control over the affected system, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where users may have elevated privileges or where multiple users share the same system.
The exploitation of CVE-2016-0160 typically follows the pattern of DLL hijacking or side-loading attacks where attackers place malicious DLL files in directories that are searched before the legitimate system directories. This technique leverages the Windows DLL search order mechanism and can be particularly effective when Internet Explorer is configured to run with elevated privileges or when users have administrative rights. The vulnerability affects systems running Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, and Windows Server 2008, 2012, and 2012 R2 versions where Internet Explorer 11 is present. From a threat actor perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation through DLL side-loading, and represents a common attack pattern used in advanced persistent threat campaigns where initial access is gained through other means, but privilege escalation is needed to maintain control.
Microsoft addressed this vulnerability through security updates that modified how Internet Explorer 11 handles DLL loading operations and implemented additional security measures to prevent malicious DLL files from being loaded with elevated privileges. Organizations should ensure that all systems running Internet Explorer 11 are updated with the latest security patches, and consider implementing additional security controls such as application whitelisting, restricted user accounts, and monitoring for suspicious DLL loading behavior. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper privilege separation and the need for security-conscious development practices when designing applications that handle dynamic library loading. System administrators should monitor for signs of DLL hijacking attempts and implement security configurations that limit the search paths for DLL loading operations to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in other applications.