CVE-2017-11888 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Edge in Microsoft Windows 10 Gold, 1511, 1607, 1703, 1709, and Windows Server 2016 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 • 01/26/2021
The CVE-2017-11888 vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw in Microsoft Edge browser that affects multiple Windows 10 versions and Windows Server 2016. This vulnerability stems from how the Edge rendering engine processes objects in memory, creating opportunities for remote code execution attacks. The flaw exists within the browser's memory management systems and object handling mechanisms, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through web-based attacks without requiring local system access. Security researchers have classified this issue as a severe memory corruption vulnerability that could allow attackers to gain unauthorized control over affected systems. The vulnerability impacts all supported versions of Windows 10 including the Gold release, 1511, 1607, 1703, and 1709 editions, along with Windows Server 2016, making it widespread across Microsoft's product ecosystem.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through specific memory corruption patterns that Microsoft Edge's JavaScript engine and rendering components fail to properly handle. When the browser encounters malformed or specially crafted web content, it can lead to memory corruption that allows attackers to manipulate program execution flow. This memory corruption typically manifests through heap-based buffer overflows or use-after-free conditions within Edge's object model handling. The vulnerability's exploitation requires careful crafting of malicious web content that triggers the specific memory corruption scenario, often involving complex JavaScript code or embedded ActiveX controls that interact with Edge's memory management. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the current user, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by Edge's integration with Windows operating system components, making successful exploitation particularly damaging.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-11888 extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass broader security implications for enterprise environments. Organizations running affected Windows versions face significant risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential lateral movement within their networks. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to persistent backdoors, data exfiltration, and system-wide compromise without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website. Security teams must consider this vulnerability as a critical threat vector that can bypass traditional security controls, as it operates within the trusted browser environment. The widespread nature of affected Windows versions means that enterprises with older systems or delayed patch deployment remain particularly vulnerable to this attack vector. Network monitoring becomes crucial for detecting exploitation attempts, as the memory corruption can be triggered through various attack vectors including phishing emails, malicious websites, or compromised web applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-11888 require immediate patch deployment as the primary defense mechanism, with Microsoft releasing security updates that address the underlying memory corruption issues. Organizations should implement network-based protections including web filtering solutions and content inspection systems that can detect and block malicious web content targeting this vulnerability. Browser hardening techniques such as disabling unnecessary ActiveX controls, implementing strict security policies, and using sandboxing mechanisms can reduce exploitation success rates. Security teams must also consider implementing endpoint detection and response solutions that can identify anomalous memory access patterns or code execution behaviors indicative of exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-125 (Out-of-bounds Read) and CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write) highlights the fundamental memory safety issues that require comprehensive remediation. Organizations should also review their incident response procedures to ensure readiness for potential exploitation events, as this vulnerability can be leveraged for advanced persistent threat campaigns. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should include specific checks for this vulnerability to ensure complete remediation across all affected systems.