CVE-2017-0240 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability exists in Microsoft Edge in the way affected Microsoft scripting engines render when handling objects in memory, aka "Microsoft Edge Memory Corruption Vulnerability." This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2017-0221 and CVE-2017-0227.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/22/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0240 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft Edge's scripting engine implementation that enables remote code execution. This issue specifically affects the way Microsoft's scripting engines handle object rendering in memory, creating a pathway for attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. The vulnerability resides in the complex interaction between Edge's JavaScript engine and its memory management systems, where improper handling of objects during rendering processes can lead to unpredictable memory states. Security researchers have classified this as a memory corruption vulnerability due to the potential for attackers to manipulate memory addresses and execute malicious payloads through carefully crafted web content.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when Microsoft Edge processes web content that triggers specific memory manipulation patterns within the scripting engine. The flaw typically manifests when the browser encounters malformed or maliciously constructed objects that cause the rendering engine to access memory locations outside of its intended boundaries. This memory corruption can be leveraged to overwrite critical memory segments, redirect program execution flow, or inject malicious code into the browser's execution context. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it operates within the browser's core rendering pipeline, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered simply by visiting a compromised website or opening maliciously crafted web content.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to enterprise and individual users alike, as it requires no user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website. The attack surface is extensive given that Microsoft Edge is widely deployed across Windows environments, and the vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including malicious websites, email attachments, or compromised web services. The remote code execution capability means that attackers can gain full control over affected systems, potentially leading to data theft, system compromise, or further network infiltration. Organizations running Microsoft Edge in their environments face heightened security risks, particularly in scenarios where users access untrusted websites or where the browser is used in conjunction with other vulnerable applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0240 should include immediate deployment of Microsoft's security patches and updates, which address the underlying memory corruption issues in the scripting engines. Organizations should implement network-level protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering solutions to prevent access to known malicious domains. Browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary scripting features, implementing strict content security policies, and utilizing sandboxing technologies can significantly reduce exploitation risks. Security teams should also consider implementing endpoint detection and response solutions to monitor for suspicious memory access patterns and potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and relates to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for script-based execution, emphasizing the need for comprehensive defensive measures across multiple security layers. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to ensure complete remediation and prevent similar issues from emerging in other browser components or scripting engines.