CVE-2016-7288 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
The scripting engines in Microsoft Edge allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (memory corruption) via a crafted web site, aka "Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability," a different vulnerability than CVE-2016-7286, CVE-2016-7296, and CVE-2016-7297.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/28/2025
The scripting engine vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-7288 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft Edge's JavaScript engine, specifically affecting the Chakra scripting engine that powers the browser's web content execution. This vulnerability enables remote attackers to craft malicious websites that can trigger arbitrary code execution or system denial of service conditions when users visit these compromised pages. The flaw demonstrates the inherent risks associated with complex scripting engines that must handle vast amounts of dynamic code while maintaining memory safety and integrity.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper memory management within the Chakra engine's handling of JavaScript objects and their associated memory structures. When processing specially crafted JavaScript code, the engine fails to properly validate memory boundaries and object references, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited to overwrite critical memory locations. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-125 vulnerability category, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds read conditions, and aligns with the broader class of memory safety issues that have historically plagued web browsers and scripting environments. The exploitation technique typically involves triggering heap-based memory corruption through controlled JavaScript object manipulation that ultimately allows attackers to execute malicious code with the privileges of the compromised browser process.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-7288 extends beyond simple code execution capabilities to encompass significant security implications for enterprise environments and individual users. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability can potentially escalate privileges, access sensitive user data, or establish persistent backdoors through the compromised browser session. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that users need only visit a malicious website to be compromised, making it particularly dangerous for targeted attacks against high-value targets. This attack vector aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers script-based execution through web browsers, and represents a common pathway for initial access in advanced persistent threat campaigns where adversaries seek to establish footholds within network environments.
Microsoft addressed this vulnerability through comprehensive patching of the Chakra scripting engine in affected versions of Microsoft Edge and Internet Explorer, requiring users to apply security updates immediately to protect against exploitation attempts. Organizations should implement layered security approaches including web application firewalls, browser hardening configurations, and regular security assessments to minimize exposure windows. The vulnerability underscores the importance of keeping browser software updated and demonstrates how complex scripting environments require rigorous security testing and continuous monitoring to prevent exploitation. Security professionals should also consider implementing browser sandboxing mechanisms and network-based detection systems to identify potential exploitation attempts targeting this and similar vulnerabilities in the scripting engine.