CVE-2017-8604 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Edge in Microsoft Windows 10 1511, 1607, and 1703, and Windows Server 2016 allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user when the JavaScript engine fails to render when handling objects in memory in Microsoft Edge, aka "Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability". This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2017-8596, CVE-2017-8618, CVE-2017-8619, CVE-2017-8601, CVE-2017-8610, CVE-2017-8603, CVE-2017-8598, CVE-2017-8601, CVE-2017-8605, CVE-2017-8606, CVE-2017-8607, CVE-2017-8608, and CVE-2017-8609.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/12/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-8604 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft Edge's JavaScript engine, specifically affecting Windows 10 versions 1511, 1607, and 1703, as well as Windows Server 2016. This vulnerability falls under the category of scripting engine memory corruption, which is classified as CWE-125 in the Common Weakness Enumeration framework. The flaw occurs when Edge's JavaScript engine fails to properly handle memory objects during rendering operations, creating a condition where an attacker can manipulate memory contents to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the currently logged-in user.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper memory management within Edge's JavaScript engine, particularly when processing objects in memory during rendering scenarios. When the engine encounters certain malformed or improperly structured JavaScript objects, it fails to validate memory boundaries correctly, leading to potential buffer overflows or memory corruption that can be exploited. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the context of the user's current session, eliminating the need for elevated privileges to achieve code execution. The vulnerability is categorized under the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for JavaScript and the broader T1059 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it leverages JavaScript execution to achieve its malicious objectives.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-8604 is significant, as successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise without requiring administrative privileges. Attackers can craft malicious web pages that, when loaded in Microsoft Edge, trigger the memory corruption flaw and execute malicious code directly on the victim's machine. This creates a persistent threat vector that can be delivered through phishing campaigns, malicious websites, or compromised web applications. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable attackers to install additional malware, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors on the compromised system. The fact that this affects multiple Windows 10 versions and Server 2016 makes it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where these operating systems are widely deployed.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-8604 should focus on immediate patch deployment as provided by Microsoft through their regular security updates, specifically addressing the scripting engine memory corruption issue. Organizations should implement network-based protections including web application firewalls and content filtering solutions to block access to known malicious domains. Browser hardening measures such as disabling unnecessary JavaScript features, implementing strict content security policies, and using sandboxing techniques can reduce exploitation success rates. Additionally, user education regarding suspicious web content and phishing awareness programs should be strengthened to prevent accidental exploitation. The vulnerability's classification as a memory corruption issue aligns with ATT&CK techniques for privilege escalation and persistence, making comprehensive endpoint protection essential. Security teams should also monitor for indicators of compromise related to JavaScript-based attacks and implement robust logging mechanisms to detect potential exploitation attempts.