CVE-2017-11872 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Edge in Microsoft Windows 10 1607, 1703, and Windows Server 2016 allows an attacker to force the browser to send data that would otherwise be restricted to a destination website of the attacker's choice, due to how Microsoft Edge handles redirect requests, aka "Microsoft Edge Security Feature Bypass Vulnerability". This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2017-11863 and CVE-2017-11874.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/11/2024
The CVE-2017-11872 vulnerability represents a critical security feature bypass in Microsoft Edge browser that affects Windows 10 versions 1607 and 1703, as well as Windows Server 2016. This flaw enables attackers to circumvent intended security restrictions by manipulating how the browser handles redirect requests, creating a significant vector for malicious activities. The vulnerability stems from the improper handling of cross-origin resource sharing policies and browser security mechanisms that should normally prevent unauthorized data transmission between different domains. According to CWE-284, this vulnerability demonstrates inadequate access control mechanisms within the browser's security architecture, specifically in how it processes HTTP redirect responses and manages origin-based security policies.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts malicious web content that forces Microsoft Edge to perform redirects to attacker-controlled domains while still transmitting sensitive data that should be restricted to specific origins. This creates a scenario where legitimate browser security features are bypassed, allowing unauthorized data exfiltration or cross-site request forgery attacks. The flaw operates at the protocol level of web browser security, specifically targeting the implementation of the Same-Origin Policy and related security controls that are fundamental to web application security. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to perform unauthorized operations such as accessing user sessions, stealing cookies, or extracting sensitive information from legitimate websites that the user might be visiting.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-11872 extends beyond simple data theft, as it enables sophisticated attack chains that can lead to complete browser compromise and user session hijacking. This vulnerability particularly affects enterprise environments where users may be accessing sensitive corporate resources through Microsoft Edge, making it a prime target for advanced persistent threat actors. The security implications align with ATT&CK technique T1071.001 for application layer protocol usage and T1566 for credential harvesting through social engineering. Organizations running affected Windows versions face significant risk of data breaches, as attackers can exploit this vulnerability to bypass security controls that would normally protect against cross-site scripting and data leakage attacks. The vulnerability's persistence across multiple Windows 10 releases and server versions indicates a fundamental flaw in the browser's security architecture that required immediate patching.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-11872 involve immediate deployment of Microsoft security updates that address the redirect handling mechanism and strengthen the browser's security controls. Organizations should implement network-level protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems to detect and block suspicious redirect patterns. Browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary features, implementing strict security policies, and monitoring for anomalous redirect behavior can reduce exploitation risk. Additionally, user education regarding suspicious website behavior and the importance of keeping systems updated remains crucial. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper implementation of security features and the need for continuous security testing of browser components, particularly those handling cross-origin operations and redirect mechanisms that are fundamental to web security protocols.