CVE-2017-11800 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Edge in Microsoft Windows 10 Gold, 1511, 1607, and Windows Server 2016 allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user, due to how the scripting engine handles objects in memory, aka "Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability". This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2017-11792, CVE-2017-11793, CVE-2017-11796, CVE-2017-11797, CVE-2017-11798, CVE-2017-11799, CVE-2017-11801, CVE-2017-11802, CVE-2017-11804, CVE-2017-11805, CVE-2017-11806, CVE-2017-11807, CVE-2017-11808, CVE-2017-11809, CVE-2017-11810, CVE-2017-11811, CVE-2017-11812, and CVE-2017-11821.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/16/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-11800 represents a critical memory corruption issue within Microsoft Edge's scripting engine that affects multiple Windows 10 versions including the Gold release, 1511, and 1607 editions, along with Windows Server 2016. This flaw operates at the core of how the browser's JavaScript engine manages memory objects, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the currently logged-in user. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of memory operations during script execution, specifically when objects are manipulated in the browser's memory space. The technical nature of this issue places it squarely within the realm of memory safety vulnerabilities that have been historically exploited in browser environments to achieve privilege escalation and code execution.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-11800 is particularly severe as it enables attackers to bypass standard security boundaries and execute malicious code directly within the user context without requiring administrative privileges. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-125 as an out-of-bounds read condition, which is a common precursor to memory corruption exploits that can lead to arbitrary code execution. Attackers typically leverage such vulnerabilities through crafted web content or malicious websites that trigger the vulnerable code path in the scripting engine. The exploitability of this vulnerability is enhanced by the fact that it requires no user interaction beyond visiting a malicious webpage, making it particularly dangerous in phishing campaigns and drive-by download scenarios. The vulnerability's presence across multiple Windows versions and server configurations increases its attack surface significantly.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 technique for 'Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript', where adversaries use browser-based scripting to execute malicious code. The memory corruption aspect of CVE-2017-11800 can be categorized under the T1068 technique for 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation', as successful exploitation typically results in elevated privileges. Organizations affected by this vulnerability face significant risk of data compromise, system takeover, and potential lateral movement within networks. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw means that attackers can compromise systems without physical access or user interaction beyond web browsing. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability is part of a broader set of related issues in the same vulnerability family, as indicated by the detailed list of associated CVE identifiers, suggesting a systemic weakness in the scripting engine's memory management implementation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-11800 should include immediate deployment of Microsoft security updates and patches that address the underlying memory handling issues in the Edge browser's scripting engine. Organizations should implement network-based protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering solutions to block access to known malicious domains. Browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary scripting features, implementing strict content security policies, and using sandboxing techniques can provide additional defense layers. Regular security assessments should verify that systems are properly patched and that no legacy components remain vulnerable to exploitation. The vulnerability's nature makes it particularly susceptible to automated exploitation, so proactive monitoring and incident response procedures should be enhanced to detect and respond to potential exploitation attempts. Security teams should also consider implementing user education programs to reduce the risk of accidental exploitation through social engineering attacks that leverage this vulnerability.