CVE-2017-8499 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Edge in Windows 10 1703 allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user when the Edge JavaScript scripting engine fails to handle objects in memory, aka "Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability". This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2017-8520, CVE-2017-8521, CVE-2017-8548, and CVE-2017-8549.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/27/2020
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft Edge's JavaScript scripting engine that affects Windows 10 version 1703. The issue arises from improper handling of objects in memory during JavaScript execution, creating a pathway for remote code execution attacks. The vulnerability specifically targets the V8 JavaScript engine component that Microsoft Edge utilizes for script processing, making it particularly dangerous as it leverages the browser's native scripting capabilities to deliver malicious payloads.
The technical nature of this flaw falls under the category of memory corruption vulnerabilities, which are classified as CWE-125 in the Common Weakness Enumeration system. This weakness occurs when a program reads memory outside the bounds of a buffer or object, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate memory contents or execute arbitrary code. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with heap-based buffer overflows or use-after-free conditions that can be exploited through carefully crafted JavaScript code delivered via web pages or email attachments.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to enterprise environments where Microsoft Edge is the default browser or where users frequently access untrusted web content. The attack requires minimal user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website or opening a compromised email attachment, making it particularly dangerous for phishing campaigns. The exploitation occurs in the context of the current user, meaning successful attacks could lead to full system compromise depending on the user's privileges and the specific attack vector employed.
The attack surface for this vulnerability is extensive given Edge's integration into the Windows operating system and its widespread use in enterprise environments. Security researchers have identified that attackers can leverage this flaw to bypass modern security mitigations such as ASLR and DEP, particularly when combined with other exploitation techniques. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw means that attackers do not require physical access to target systems, enabling large-scale attacks against vulnerable populations.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying Microsoft's security patches, deploying browser isolation solutions, and implementing network-based protections such as web application firewalls. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under the T1059.007 technique for Scripting, specifically targeting the Windows Command Shell and JavaScript engines. Additional defensive measures include user education about suspicious web content, implementation of strict email filtering policies, and regular security assessments to identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and demonstrates how browser-based exploits can serve as initial access vectors for more sophisticated attack chains.