CVE-2017-0234 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability exists in Microsoft Edge in the way that the Chakra JavaScript engine renders when handling objects in memory, aka "Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability." This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2017-0224, CVE-2017-0228, CVE-2017-0229, CVE-2017-0230, CVE-2017-0235, CVE-2017-0236, and CVE-2017-0238.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/23/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0234 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within Microsoft Edge's Chakra JavaScript engine, specifically manifesting as a memory corruption issue during object handling operations. This vulnerability resides in the browser's scripting engine component that processes JavaScript code, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through web-based attacks without requiring user interaction. The flaw occurs when the Chakra engine improperly manages memory allocation and deallocation processes for JavaScript objects, creating opportunities for malicious code injection and arbitrary code execution on vulnerable systems.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper memory management within the Chakra JavaScript engine's object rendering mechanisms. When Edge processes certain JavaScript constructs, particularly those involving object manipulation and memory operations, the engine fails to properly validate memory boundaries and object references. This memory corruption vulnerability allows attackers to craft malicious web pages that, when loaded in Microsoft Edge, can cause the browser to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the current user. The flaw specifically affects how the engine handles memory objects during JavaScript execution, creating a pathway for attackers to overwrite memory locations and redirect program execution flow.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe threat to enterprise and individual users alike as it enables sophisticated attack campaigns where adversaries can deliver malicious payloads through compromised websites or phishing emails. The remote exploitation capability means that users do not need to download or install anything beyond visiting a malicious webpage, making this attack vector particularly effective for widespread compromise. The vulnerability affects Microsoft Edge browsers running on Windows 10 and earlier versions, with the potential for privilege escalation and system compromise, as noted in the ATT&CK framework's remote code execution techniques. Organizations using Edge as their primary browser face significant risk exposure, particularly in environments where users may encounter malicious content through web browsing activities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0234 should prioritize immediate patch deployment through Microsoft's security updates, as the vendor released critical security fixes addressing this specific memory corruption issue. Organizations should implement network-based protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering solutions to block malicious JavaScript content, while also considering browser hardening measures that restrict JavaScript execution capabilities. Security teams should monitor for indicators of compromise related to this vulnerability, including unusual network connections or memory access patterns, and maintain updated threat intelligence feeds to detect exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and reflects common attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK matrix under remote code execution techniques. Regular security assessments and user awareness training should complement technical controls to reduce the attack surface and prevent successful exploitation attempts.