CVE-2017-0037 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Internet Explorer 10 and 11 and Microsoft Edge have a type confusion issue in the Layout::MultiColumnBoxBuilder::HandleColumnBreakOnColumnSpanningElement function in mshtml.dll, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via vectors involving a crafted Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) token sequence and crafted JavaScript code that operates on a TH element.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/24/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0037 represents a critical type confusion flaw within Microsoft's web browsers, specifically affecting Internet Explorer 10 and 11 as well as Microsoft Edge. This issue resides in the mshtml.dll component which serves as the core rendering engine for web content in Microsoft's browser ecosystem. The vulnerability manifests within the Layout::MultiColumnBoxBuilder::HandleColumnBreakOnColumnSpanningElement function, where improper type handling creates opportunities for malicious code execution. The flaw specifically targets the processing of CSS token sequences combined with JavaScript operations on table header elements, creating a complex attack surface that leverages the interaction between different rendering components.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from a type confusion error that occurs when the browser attempts to process CSS column-spanning elements within table structures. When a crafted CSS token sequence is processed alongside specific JavaScript code operating on TH elements, the browser's memory management system fails to properly validate type information during object manipulation. This type confusion allows attackers to manipulate memory pointers and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the browser. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-466 as "Return of Pointer Value Outside of Expected Range" and represents a classic case of improper type handling in memory management operations. The attack vector requires a user to visit a malicious webpage or receive crafted content through email or other means, making it particularly dangerous in phishing scenarios.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0037 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it can be leveraged for full system compromise when combined with other exploitation techniques. Attackers can utilize this vulnerability to bypass security mechanisms such as address space layout randomization and data execution protection, particularly when targeting Windows systems with older security configurations. The vulnerability's exploitation aligns with techniques described in the ATT&CK framework under T1059 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. The specific targeting of table header elements through CSS manipulation makes this vulnerability particularly insidious as it can be embedded within seemingly benign web content, making detection and prevention more challenging for security professionals.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected systems, as Microsoft released security updates addressing the underlying type confusion issue. Organizations should implement network-based protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems that can detect and block malicious CSS sequences. Browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary JavaScript features and implementing strict content security policies can reduce the attack surface. Security teams should also deploy monitoring solutions capable of detecting unusual memory access patterns and pointer manipulation that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of regular security updates and proper input validation in browser rendering engines, as it demonstrates how complex interactions between CSS processing and JavaScript execution can create unexpected security weaknesses. Additionally, user education regarding the dangers of visiting untrusted websites and opening suspicious email attachments remains crucial in defending against exploitation attempts leveraging this vulnerability.