Research > Zero-Day Tracker > 20100630
Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 Memory Address Disclosure
Date Disclosed:
6/30/2010
Date Patched:
Patch Not Yet Available
Vendor:
Microsoft
Affected Software:
Internet Explorer 6
Formerly Internet Explorer 7 and 8
Description:
Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 contains a vulnerability when calculating timer ID's that could cause specific memory addresses (i.e. persistent memory locations) to be disclosed. If an attacker is able to combine knowledge of memory locations with a more critical vulnerability (e.g. one that could potentially allow code execution), then it could be further leveraged to bypass ASLR (Address Space Layout Randomization) protection.
Severity:
Moderate
Code Execution:
No
Impact:
Remote disclosure of information
This client-side vulnerability could allow an attacker to gain information about persistent memory addresses, which could be used alongside other exploits to compromise a system. By itself, the vulnerability is not very potent, but when combined with other vulnerabilities, it could have a much higher impact.
Mitigation:
The best form of mitigation is available by disabling scripting (i.e. VBscript, JavaScript). Alternatively, it may be possible to limit potential exposure by restricting access to sites/domains using Internet Explorer Zones, however may not fully mitigate the threat since white listed or unrestricted sites could potentially be compromised.
Protection:
Links:
Status:
6.30.2010 Public Information Released
6.14.2011 MS11-050 patches the vulnerability in IE7 and IE8
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