CVE-2017-11822 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Internet Explorer in Microsoft Windows 7 SP1, Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1, Windows 8.1 and Windows RT 8.1, Windows Server 2012 and R2, 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 how Internet Explorer handles objects in memory, aka "Internet Explorer Memory Corruption Vulnerability". This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2017-11813.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/16/2021
The CVE-2017-11822 vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw in Microsoft Internet Explorer that affects multiple operating system versions including Windows 7 SP1 through Windows 10 version 1703. This vulnerability operates at the core memory management level of the browser, specifically targeting how Internet Explorer handles objects in memory during normal operation. The flaw enables attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the currently logged-in user, potentially leading to complete system compromise without requiring elevated privileges. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it leverages the browser's normal rendering processes to achieve code execution, making it difficult to detect through traditional security measures.
The technical implementation of this memory corruption vulnerability stems from improper handling of objects within Internet Explorer's memory space. When processing certain web content, particularly documents containing malicious embedded code, the browser fails to properly validate memory boundaries and object references. This allows attackers to craft specially designed documents or web pages that trigger memory corruption conditions, which can then be exploited to overwrite critical memory locations. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-125 as an out-of-bounds read condition, where the application accesses memory outside of its intended boundaries. This particular flaw operates within the context of the browser's scripting engine and document processing components, making it particularly dangerous in phishing attacks or when users visit compromised websites.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-11822 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a foothold for further compromise within the target environment. Once successfully exploited, the vulnerability allows attackers to perform actions such as installing malicious software, modifying system files, accessing sensitive data, or establishing persistence mechanisms. The attack surface is broad due to the widespread use of Internet Explorer across enterprise environments, making this vulnerability particularly attractive to threat actors. Security researchers have noted that this vulnerability often serves as an initial access vector in more sophisticated attack campaigns, where it may be used to deliver additional payloads or establish backdoors. The vulnerability's exploitation typically requires user interaction through social engineering tactics, such as enticing users to open malicious documents or visit compromised websites.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-11822 involve multiple layers of defense including immediate patching of affected systems, implementation of browser hardening measures, and enhanced network monitoring. Microsoft released security updates that address the memory corruption issue by correcting how Internet Explorer handles object references and memory allocation during document processing. Organizations should prioritize patch deployment across all affected Windows versions and consider implementing additional security controls such as disabling automatic execution of ActiveX controls, enabling enhanced security features in Internet Explorer, and utilizing application whitelisting solutions. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1203, which describes exploitation of software vulnerabilities, and T1059, covering command and scripting interpreters. Network administrators should monitor for suspicious network traffic patterns and implement web filtering solutions to block access to known malicious domains that may host exploit code for this vulnerability.