CVE-2016-3298VulnerabilityPublished 05/24/2022Updated 10/24/2026

CVE-2016-3298: Microsoft Internet Explorer Messaging API Information Disclosure Vulnerability

Affects Microsoft Internet ExplorerSource CISA KEV

Severity

High

No CVSS score published yet

Exploitation: Actively exploited – in CISA KEV since 05/24/2022
KEV deadline: 06/14/2022
EPSS: 33.3% chance of exploitation in 30 days – higher than 98% of CVEs

What to do

CISA required action

Apply updates per vendor instructions.

nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2016-3298 (opens in a new tab)

Description

CVE-2016-3298 is an information disclosure vulnerability in Microsoft Internet Explorer's Messaging API. It occurs due to improper handling of objects in memory, allowing an attacker to test for the presence of files on disk. This vulnerability has been exploited in the wild. No specific affected versions or patch information is provided.

Summary

This vulnerability involves Microsoft Internet Explorer's Messaging API improperly handling objects in memory, leading to information disclosure. Successful exploitation enables an attacker to determine whether specific files exist on the target system's disk. The vulnerability is identified as CVE-2016-3298 and has been observed in active exploitation scenarios.

Impact

An attacker exploiting this vulnerability can confirm the presence of files on the victim's disk, potentially aiding further targeted attacks or reconnaissance. The information disclosure could compromise user privacy or system security depending on the files detected. The vulnerability has been exploited in the wild, indicating active threat usage.

Mitigation

Patch status is not yet confirmed — check the vendor advisory for current remediation guidance. Since no patch or official fix information is provided, users should monitor Microsoft advisories for updates and apply any released patches promptly.

Weaknesses

CWE-200Information Exposure (opens in a new tab)

What to do

Description

AnalysisAI-generated, updated 10/24/2026, 11:42:06 UTC

Weaknesses

References

Related threats