CVE-2017-11766 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Edge in Microsoft Windows 10 Gold, 1511, 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 Microsoft Edge accesses objects in memory, aka "Microsoft Edge Memory Corruption Vulnerability". This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2017-8731, CVE-2017-8734, and CVE-2017-8751.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/11/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-11766 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft Edge browser that affects multiple Windows 10 versions and Windows Server 2016. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-125 vulnerability type, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds read conditions that can lead to memory corruption and arbitrary code execution. The flaw manifests when Microsoft Edge processes certain objects in memory, creating a path for attackers to exploit the browser's memory management mechanisms. According to the ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, as attackers can leverage this memory corruption to execute malicious code with the privileges of the current user.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from Microsoft Edge's improper handling of memory objects during web page rendering and script execution processes. When the browser encounters specific malformed content or constructs that trigger memory access violations, it fails to properly validate object boundaries, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged by attackers. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the context of the current user, meaning that successful exploitation does not require administrative privileges to achieve code execution. This characteristic places the vulnerability in the category of user-level exploits that can be particularly effective in phishing campaigns or when users visit malicious websites.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-11766 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a persistent foothold within compromised systems. Once an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they can execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the current user, potentially leading to full system compromise through additional attack vectors. The vulnerability affects a wide range of Microsoft Windows versions, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where multiple system versions may be present. Organizations running Windows 10 versions 1511, 1607, and 1703, as well as Windows Server 2016, face significant risk from this vulnerability, as it allows for the execution of malicious payloads without requiring elevated privileges.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily focus on immediate patching and system updates, as Microsoft released security updates addressing this specific memory corruption flaw. Organizations should prioritize deployment of the relevant security patches and updates to prevent exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing browser hardening measures such as disabling unnecessary browser features, configuring enhanced security settings, and employing sandboxing techniques can significantly reduce the attack surface. Network-based mitigations including web application firewalls and content filtering systems can help detect and block malicious content that might trigger this vulnerability. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual memory access patterns and browser process anomalies that could indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-125 and its mapping to ATT&CK techniques emphasize the need for comprehensive security approaches that address both the technical flaw and the broader exploitation landscape.