CVE-2017-0252 in Chakra Core
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability exists in Microsoft Chakra Core in the way JavaScript engines render when handling objects in memory. aka "Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability". This vulnerability is unique from CVE-2017-0223.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/06/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0252 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within Microsoft Chakra Core JavaScript engine, specifically affecting the way the engine manages object rendering in memory. This issue resides in the scripting engine component that powers Microsoft Edge browser and other applications utilizing the Chakra JavaScript engine. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of memory operations during JavaScript object manipulation, creating potential entry points for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The flaw is particularly concerning because it operates at the core engine level where JavaScript code is interpreted and executed, making it a fundamental security weakness that affects the entire execution environment. Unlike similar vulnerabilities such as CVE-2017-0223 which affects different components of the same engine, this particular flaw focuses specifically on memory corruption during object handling, making it distinct in both scope and exploitation methods.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves memory corruption that occurs when the Chakra Core engine processes JavaScript objects through its memory management system. When JavaScript code executes with specific patterns of object manipulation, the engine fails to properly validate or manage memory allocations, leading to buffer overflows or memory corruption conditions. This memory corruption can be leveraged by attackers to overwrite critical memory locations, potentially allowing them to redirect program execution flow to malicious code. The vulnerability typically manifests when the JavaScript engine encounters complex object structures or specific memory access patterns that cause it to improperly handle memory boundaries. The flaw is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, which is a well-known class of memory corruption vulnerabilities that have historically provided attackers with reliable means of executing arbitrary code. This classification indicates that the vulnerability involves improper handling of memory allocation and access patterns that can be exploited through carefully crafted JavaScript payloads.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0252 extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass a broad range of potential security consequences for affected systems. Organizations running Microsoft Edge browser or applications utilizing Chakra Core are at risk of complete system compromise when this vulnerability is exploited. Attackers can leverage this flaw to install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors on compromised systems. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where Edge browser is used for web browsing or where applications depend on Chakra Core for scripting functionality. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers can target victims without requiring physical access to the system, making it a significant threat vector for phishing campaigns or drive-by downloads. This vulnerability also has implications for cloud services and web applications that may be vulnerable if they utilize Chakra Core for JavaScript processing or if they are hosted on systems that are susceptible to this type of exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0252 should focus on immediate patch deployment and system hardening measures to reduce the attack surface. Microsoft released security updates that address this vulnerability through patches that correct the memory handling routines in Chakra Core. Organizations should prioritize applying these updates across all affected systems immediately, particularly those running Microsoft Edge or applications that rely on the Chakra JavaScript engine. Network segmentation and application whitelisting can provide additional layers of protection by limiting the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Implementing strict web browsing policies and using security software that can detect and block malicious JavaScript payloads can also help reduce the risk of exploitation. The vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including T1059 for command and scripting interpreter and T1203 for exploitation for client execution, making it a significant concern for threat hunting and incident response teams. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should include checks for proper patch application and monitoring for potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing browser isolation technologies and sandboxing mechanisms to contain potential exploitation attempts and limit the damage that can occur if the vulnerability is successfully exploited.