CVE-2017-11764 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Edge in Microsoft Windows 10 1607, 1703, and Windows Server 2016 allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user, due to the way that the Microsoft Edge scripting engine handles objects in memory, aka "Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability". This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2017-8649, CVE-2017-8660, CVE-2017-8729, CVE-2017-8738, CVE-2017-8740, CVE-2017-8741, CVE-2017-8748, CVE-2017-8752, CVE-2017-8753, CVE-2017-8755, and CVE-2017-8756.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/22/2024
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption issue within Microsoft Edge's scripting engine that affects Windows 10 versions 1607 and 1703, as well as Windows Server 2016. The flaw manifests when the Edge browser processes certain objects in memory, creating conditions that allow attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the currently logged-in user. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-125 weakness category, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds read conditions that can lead to memory corruption and potential code execution. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the scripting engine level, meaning malicious code can be injected through web pages that the user visits, making it a prime target for drive-by download attacks and social engineering campaigns.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the browser's handling of memory objects within its JavaScript engine, specifically targeting memory corruption patterns that can be triggered through malformed or maliciously crafted web content. Attackers can craft web pages that manipulate how Edge allocates and manages memory for JavaScript objects, leading to buffer overflows or other memory corruption scenarios. This vulnerability is distinct from several other related issues in the same vulnerability family, indicating that Microsoft identified a unique memory handling pattern that required separate remediation. The attack surface is broad since Edge is the default browser on Windows systems, and users frequently encounter web content through normal browsing activities, making this a high-impact vulnerability for enterprise and individual users alike.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-11764 extends beyond simple code execution, as successful exploitation can lead to full system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability gains the ability to perform actions within the user's security context, potentially including file system access, registry modifications, and network communications. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 which covers execution through scripting languages, and T1068 which addresses privilege escalation through local exploitation. Organizations running affected Windows versions face significant risk as attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access, steal sensitive information, or deploy additional malware. The vulnerability's presence in both client and server operating systems means that enterprises must consider both user endpoints and server infrastructure when assessing risk and implementing mitigation strategies.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching as the primary defense mechanism, with Microsoft releasing security updates that address the memory corruption patterns in Edge's scripting engine. Organizations should also implement network-based protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering solutions that can detect and block malicious web content before it reaches user systems. Browser hardening techniques including disabling unnecessary scripting features, implementing strict content security policies, and using sandboxing mechanisms can provide additional layers of protection. Security teams should monitor for indicators of compromise related to this vulnerability, including unusual network connections from Edge processes, unexpected file modifications, and suspicious registry changes. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw means that organizations should also consider implementing endpoint detection and response solutions that can identify exploitation attempts and provide real-time alerts for suspicious activities. Regular security assessments and user awareness training should emphasize the risks associated with visiting untrusted websites and the importance of keeping systems updated with the latest security patches.