CVE-2017-11870 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
ChakraCore and Microsoft Edge in Windows 10 1703, 1709, and Windows Server, version 1709 allows an attacker to gain the same user rights as 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-2017-11836, CVE-2017-11837, CVE-2017-11838, CVE-2017-11839, CVE-2017-11840, CVE-2017-11841, CVE-2017-11843, CVE-2017-11846, CVE-2017-11858, CVE-2017-11859, CVE-2017-11861, CVE-2017-11862, CVE-2017-11866, CVE-2017-11869, CVE-2017-11871, and CVE-2017-11873.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/11/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-11870 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft's ChakraCore JavaScript engine that affects Windows 10 versions 1703 and 1709, as well as Windows Server version 1709. This vulnerability specifically targets the scripting engine's handling of objects in memory, creating a path for attackers to escalate privileges to the same level as the currently logged-in user. The flaw stems from improper memory management during object manipulation within the ChakraCore engine, which is the core JavaScript engine used by Microsoft Edge browser and various other applications. This issue is classified under CWE-125 as an out-of-bounds read condition that can lead to arbitrary code execution, making it particularly dangerous in the context of browser-based attacks where attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious code with elevated privileges.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-11870 extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it represents a sophisticated attack vector that aligns with the tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the privilege escalation category. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious web content or documents that trigger the memory corruption when processed by the affected JavaScript engine. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within the context of a web browser, making it accessible through standard phishing attacks, drive-by downloads, or compromised websites. Once successfully exploited, the attacker gains the same user rights as the current user, which could allow for data theft, system compromise, or further lateral movement within a network environment. This type of vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution flaw that can be triggered through user interaction, making it a significant threat to enterprise security environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-11870 should focus on immediate patch management and system hardening measures. Microsoft released security updates that address this vulnerability through the regular Windows Update process, and organizations must ensure all affected systems receive these patches promptly. The vulnerability requires user interaction to exploit, typically through visiting malicious websites or opening compromised documents, which makes user education and awareness programs crucial components of defense. Network segmentation and the implementation of web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring and controlling traffic to and from potentially compromised systems. Security teams should also implement monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous behavior patterns consistent with memory corruption exploitation attempts, particularly within browser processes and JavaScript engine activities. The vulnerability's classification as a memory corruption issue also necessitates regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify potential exploitation vectors and ensure that all systems remain protected against similar vulnerabilities in the ChakraCore engine and related components.