CVE-2016-7284 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 10 and 11 allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information from process memory via a crafted web site, aka "Internet Explorer Information Disclosure Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/08/2022
The CVE-2016-7284 vulnerability represents a critical information disclosure flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 10 and 11 that enables remote attackers to extract sensitive data from process memory through malicious web content. This vulnerability falls under the category of memory corruption issues that can be exploited to reveal confidential information stored in the browser's memory space. The flaw specifically affects the way Internet Explorer handles certain memory operations during web page rendering and processing, creating an avenue for attackers to access data that should remain protected within the application's memory boundaries.
This vulnerability operates by leveraging improper memory management practices within the browser's rendering engine, allowing attackers to craft specially designed web pages that trigger memory access patterns leading to information disclosure. The technical implementation involves manipulating how Internet Explorer allocates, manages, and accesses memory segments during page execution, potentially exposing sensitive data such as cryptographic keys, user credentials, or other confidential information that resides in adjacent memory locations. The exploitation mechanism typically requires the user to visit a malicious website, making this a client-side attack vector that can be delivered through phishing campaigns or compromised websites.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-7284 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the leaked memory contents could contain highly sensitive data that could be used for further attacks. Attackers could potentially extract session tokens, encryption keys, or other cryptographic material that would enable them to impersonate users or decrypt communications. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-200, which specifically addresses "Information Exposure," and represents a classic example of how memory management flaws can lead to unauthorized data access. The vulnerability's classification under the ATT&CK framework would fall within the Information Gathering phase, specifically targeting the Collection tactic where adversaries gather information about the target system for subsequent exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve applying Microsoft's security patches and updates as released through the Windows Update mechanism. Organizations should ensure that all Internet Explorer installations are updated to the latest security patches, particularly those addressing memory management issues in the browser's rendering engine. Additionally, implementing browser hardening measures such as disabling unnecessary features, using enhanced security configurations, and deploying web application firewalls can help reduce the attack surface. Network-level protections including intrusion detection systems and content filtering solutions can also detect and block malicious web content attempting to exploit this vulnerability, though the most effective defense remains timely patch management and user education regarding safe browsing practices to avoid visiting compromised websites.