CVE-2017-0149 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 9 through 11 allow 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." This vulnerability is different from those described in CVE-2017-0018 and CVE-2017-0037.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/25/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0149 represents a critical memory corruption flaw affecting Microsoft Internet Explorer versions 9 through 11. This vulnerability enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or induce denial of service conditions through maliciously crafted web content, making it a significant threat to enterprise and individual users who rely on legacy browser environments. The flaw specifically targets the memory management mechanisms within Internet Explorer's rendering engine, creating opportunities for attackers to exploit memory corruption patterns that can lead to complete system compromise.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of memory operations within Internet Explorer's JavaScript engine and rendering components. Attackers can construct web pages containing maliciously formatted data structures that trigger buffer overflows or use-after-free conditions when the browser processes these elements. The vulnerability manifests when the browser attempts to parse and render crafted content, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged to execute malicious payloads. This type of memory corruption vulnerability typically falls under CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations. The attack vector specifically aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which involves exploiting software vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0149 extends beyond simple exploitation as it affects users of legacy Internet Explorer versions that remain in corporate environments where browser upgrades are delayed or constrained. Organizations running Internet Explorer 9 through 11 are particularly vulnerable since these versions lack modern security mitigations and are no longer supported with security updates. The vulnerability's remote execution capability means that users can be compromised simply by visiting malicious websites, making it particularly dangerous in phishing campaigns or compromised websites. The memory corruption aspect creates unpredictable behavior that can manifest as application crashes, system instability, or full system compromise depending on the execution context and attacker sophistication.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action from organizations relying on affected Internet Explorer versions. The most effective approach involves implementing browser isolation techniques, such as using Internet Explorer Mode in Microsoft Edge for legacy compatibility, or migrating to supported browser versions that receive regular security updates. Organizations should also deploy network-based protections including web application firewalls and content filtering solutions to block access to known malicious domains. Additionally, implementing exploit protection mechanisms such as data execution prevention and address space layout randomization can help reduce the effectiveness of exploitation attempts. Microsoft's recommended remediation includes applying the relevant security patches and implementing browser hardening measures as outlined in their security advisories, though the legacy nature of the affected versions means that complete protection may require complete browser migration to modern platforms.