Cumulative Security Update for Internet Explorer (MS16-037)

ITS Advisory Number:

2016-065

Date(s) Issued:

Tuesday, April 12, 2016

Subject:

Cumulative Security Update for Internet Explorer (MS16-037)

Overview:

Multiple vulnerabilities have been discovered in Internet Explorer that could allow for remote code execution. These vulnerabilities could allow an attacker to execute code in the context of a user who views a specially crafted web page. Successful exploitation of these vulnerabilities could result in an attacker gaining the same privileges as the logged on user. Depending on the privileges associated with the user, an attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full user rights.

Systems Affected:

Internet Explorer 11
Internet Explorer 10
Internet Explorer 9

RISK

GOVERNMENT

Large and medium government entities:

High

Small government entities:

High

BUSINESS

Large and medium business entities:

High

Small business entities:

High

Home Users:

High

Description:

Multiple vulnerabilities exist in Internet Explorer. The vulnerabilities are as follows:

Four Memory Corruption Vulnerabilities exist that could execute code in the context of the current user (CVE-2016-0154, CVE-2016-0159, CVE-2016-0164, CVE-2016-0166).
One DLL Remote Code Execution Vulnerability exists when Internet Explorer improperly validates input before loading dynamic link library (DLL) files (CVE-2016-0160).
One Information Disclosure Vulnerability when Internet Explorer does not properly handle JavaScript(CVE-2016-0162).

These vulnerabilities could allow remote code execution, information disclosure, browser spoofing and/or elevation of privileges. An attacker who successfully exploits these vulnerabilities could gain the same user rights as the current user. Depending on the privileges associated with the user, an attacker could successfully exploit these vulnerabilities by taking control of the affected system, install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full user rights.

Actions:

After appropriate testing, apply appropriate patches provided by Microsoft to vulnerable systems.
Consider implementing the workarounds provided by Microsoft if patching cannot be completed immediately, see the Microsoft link in the references section below.
Run all software as a non-privileged user (one without administrative privileges) to diminish the effects of a successful attack.
Remind users not to visit untrusted websites or follow links provided by unknown or untrusted sources.