CVE-2016-3375 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
The OLE Automation mechanism and VBScript scripting engine in Microsoft Internet Explorer 9 through 11, Windows Vista SP2, Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1, Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012 Gold and R2, Windows RT 8.1, and Windows 10 Gold, 1511, and 1607 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (memory corruption) via a crafted web site, aka "Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/16/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-3375 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft Internet Explorer's scripting engines, specifically affecting versions 9 through 11 across multiple Windows operating systems. This vulnerability resides in the OLE Automation mechanism and VBScript scripting engine components that are integral to Internet Explorer's functionality. The flaw enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or induce denial of service conditions when users visit malicious websites, making it particularly dangerous in phishing campaigns and drive-by download scenarios. The vulnerability's impact spans across Windows Vista SP2, Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1, Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012 Gold and R2, Windows RT 8.1, and Windows 10 versions 1511 and 1607, indicating a broad attack surface that affected numerous enterprise and consumer systems.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper memory handling within the scripting engines that process VBScript code. When Internet Explorer encounters maliciously crafted web content containing specially constructed VBScript code, the scripting engine fails to properly validate memory operations, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the current user. This memory corruption occurs during the parsing and execution of VBScript within the browser's automation interfaces, where insufficient bounds checking and memory management controls allow attackers to manipulate heap memory structures. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations, both of which are common precursors to memory corruption exploits. The flaw represents a classic buffer overflow condition where attacker-controlled data can overwrite memory regions beyond allocated boundaries, potentially leading to code execution.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-3375 extends beyond simple exploitation capabilities to encompass significant enterprise security risks and operational challenges. Organizations running affected versions of Internet Explorer face substantial risk of unauthorized code execution on user systems, which could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and lateral movement within networks. The vulnerability's ability to cause denial of service means that legitimate users could experience system instability or crashes, disrupting business operations and productivity. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability through various delivery mechanisms including malicious websites, compromised web applications, and social engineering campaigns that direct users to exploit the vulnerability. The exploitability factor is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability can be triggered through normal web browsing activities without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious page, making it highly suitable for automated attack campaigns. Security professionals identified this vulnerability as part of the ATT&CK framework's technique T1059.005, which covers VBScript and WSH, demonstrating how the vulnerability fits into broader attack methodologies.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-3375 require a multi-layered approach combining immediate patching, browser hardening, and network security controls. Microsoft released security updates through the monthly patch Tuesday releases, specifically addressing this vulnerability through patches for all affected versions of Internet Explorer and Windows operating systems. Organizations should prioritize immediate deployment of these security updates across all affected systems to eliminate the vulnerability exposure. Browser hardening measures including disabling VBScript execution, implementing enhanced security zones, and configuring Internet Explorer's security settings can provide additional protection layers while awaiting full patch deployment. Network-based mitigations such as web application firewalls, content filtering solutions, and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts targeting this vulnerability. Security teams should also implement user education programs to raise awareness about phishing risks and suspicious website navigation, as the vulnerability can be exploited through social engineering campaigns. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and demonstrates how scripting engine vulnerabilities can serve as primary attack vectors in advanced persistent threat campaigns. Organizations should also consider implementing browser isolation technologies and alternative browsing solutions to reduce exposure to such vulnerabilities in environments where immediate patching is not feasible.