CVE-2017-11845 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Edge in Microsoft Windows 10 1703 allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user, due to how Microsoft Edge handles objects in memory, aka "Microsoft Edge Memory Corruption Vulnerability".
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/23/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-11845 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft Edge browser that affects Windows 10 version 1703. This issue stems from improper handling of objects in memory during browser operations, creating a pathway for remote code execution attacks. The flaw exists at the intersection of browser rendering engine functionality and memory management protocols, specifically within the JavaScript engine's object handling mechanisms. Security researchers have classified this vulnerability under the Common Weakness Enumeration category as a memory corruption weakness, which aligns with CWE-125: "Out-of-bounds Read" and CWE-787: "Out-of-bounds Write" patterns that commonly manifest in browser-based exploitation scenarios.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a maliciously crafted webpage is loaded within Microsoft Edge, triggering memory corruption through improper object handling during rendering operations. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the currently logged-in user, effectively bypassing standard security boundaries. The memory corruption manifests when Edge processes certain JavaScript objects or DOM elements that trigger buffer overflows or invalid memory access patterns. This particular vulnerability demonstrates how modern browser engines can be compromised through seemingly innocuous web content, as the attack vector requires only a user to visit a malicious website rather than requiring physical access or complex social engineering techniques.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-11845 extends beyond simple code execution, as it enables attackers to establish persistent access to affected systems. Once successfully exploited, adversaries can install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish command and control channels without user interaction beyond visiting the malicious webpage. The vulnerability's classification under the MITRE ATT&CK framework places it within the T1059.007 technique category, specifically "Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript," where attackers leverage browser-based scripting environments to execute malicious payloads. This vulnerability affects organizations across multiple sectors including government, finance, and healthcare, where browser-based attacks pose significant threats to operational security and data integrity.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including deployment of Microsoft's security patches and updates, which address the memory corruption through improved object handling and memory validation routines. Browser hardening measures such as enabling sandboxing features, disabling unnecessary browser components, and implementing strict content security policies can significantly reduce exploitation risk. Network-level protections including web application firewalls and URL filtering systems should be deployed to block access to known malicious domains. Security monitoring should focus on detecting anomalous browser behavior and memory access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining current security patches and implementing defense-in-depth strategies, as the flaw can be exploited through various attack vectors including drive-by downloads, phishing campaigns, and compromised websites that serve malicious JavaScript content.