CVE-2017-8610 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Edge in Microsoft Windows 10 1703 allows 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-2017-8598, CVE-2017-8596, CVE-2017-8595, CVE-2017-8618, CVE-2017-8619, CVE-2017-8601, CVE-2017-8603, CVE-2017-8604, 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
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft Edge's JavaScript engine that affects Windows 10 version 1703. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of memory objects during JavaScript execution, specifically when the engine attempts to render objects that have been corrupted or improperly managed in memory. The issue manifests as a scripting engine memory corruption vulnerability that allows attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the current user, bypassing standard security boundaries and potentially enabling full system compromise. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-125 as "Out-of-bounds Read" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript" while also mapping to T1068 for "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation" when combined with user context exploitation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when malicious JavaScript code is executed within the Edge browser environment, triggering a memory corruption condition that can be leveraged by attackers to gain unauthorized code execution. The flaw specifically impacts the V8 JavaScript engine component used by Edge, where improper memory management during object rendering operations creates opportunities for attackers to manipulate memory contents and redirect execution flow. Attackers typically craft malicious web pages containing specially crafted JavaScript that, when rendered by Edge, triggers the memory corruption and allows for arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability demonstrates the inherent risks associated with complex scripting engines and their interaction with memory management systems, particularly when handling user-supplied content.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-8610 is significant as it enables attackers to execute code in the context of the currently logged-in user, potentially leading to complete system compromise depending on user privileges. When exploited successfully, this vulnerability can result in data theft, system modification, persistence mechanisms installation, and lateral movement within a network. The attack surface is broad as it can be triggered through various web-based attack vectors including malicious websites, email attachments, or compromised web applications that deliver the malicious JavaScript payload. Organizations running Windows 10 version 1703 are particularly vulnerable as this specific version contains the flawed JavaScript engine implementation that makes exploitation possible. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw means that attackers can exploit it without requiring local system access, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users may browse untrusted websites.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve immediate application of Microsoft security updates and patches that address the specific memory corruption issue in the Edge JavaScript engine. Organizations should prioritize deployment of the relevant Windows 10 updates and ensure that all users are running patched versions of the operating system. Additional defensive measures include implementing browser hardening configurations, enabling enhanced security features within Edge, and deploying web application firewalls to filter potentially malicious content. Network segmentation and user access controls can help limit the potential impact of successful exploitation, while security awareness training can reduce the likelihood of users visiting malicious websites. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify potential exploitation vectors and ensure that all systems remain protected against similar memory corruption vulnerabilities. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing defense-in-depth strategies to protect against sophisticated exploitation techniques.