CVE-2006-3638

CVE-2006-3638 is a high-severity vulnerability in Microsoft Ie with a CVSS 2.0 base score of 7.5. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score of 37% places it in the 98th percentile, indicating an elevated likelihood of exploitation. The underlying weakness is classified as CWE-119.

Key facts

Description

Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.01 and 6 does not properly handle uninitialized COM objects, which allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (memory corruption) and possibly execute arbitrary code, as demonstrated by the Nth function in the DirectAnimation.DATuple ActiveX control, aka "COM Object Instantiation Memory Corruption Vulnerability."

Frequently asked questions

What is CVE-2006-3638?
Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.01 and 6 does not properly handle uninitialized COM objects, which allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (memory corruption) and possibly execute arbitrary code, as demonstrated by the Nth function in the DirectAnimation.DATuple ActiveX control, aka "COM Object Instantiation Memory Corruption Vulnerability."
How severe is CVE-2006-3638?
CVE-2006-3638 has a CVSS 2.0 base score of 7.5, rated high severity.
Is CVE-2006-3638 being actively exploited?
It is not currently listed in CISA's KEV catalog. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score is 37% (98th percentile), an estimate of the probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.
What products are affected by CVE-2006-3638?
CVE-2006-3638 primarily affects Microsoft Ie. In total, 8 product configurations (CPEs) are listed as vulnerable; see the affected-products list for the exact versions.
How do I fix CVE-2006-3638?
Review the linked vendor and NVD advisories for patched versions and mitigations, then upgrade or apply the recommended workaround. Given its high severity, prioritise patching exposed systems.
When was CVE-2006-3638 published?
CVE-2006-3638 was published on 2006-08-08 and last updated on 2026-06-16.

References

Affected products (8)

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