CVE-2017-8653 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft browsers in Microsoft Windows 7 SP1, Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1, Windows 8.1 and Windows RT 8.1, Windows Server 2012 and R2, Windows 10 Gold, 1511, 1607, 1703, and Windows Server 2016 allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user due to Microsoft browsers improperly accessing objects in memory, aka "Microsoft Browser Memory Corruption Vulnerability". This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2017-8669.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/08/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-8653 represents a critical memory corruption flaw affecting multiple Microsoft browser implementations across various Windows operating systems. This issue specifically targets the way browsers handle memory operations when processing web content, creating a pathway for remote code execution attacks that can compromise user systems. The vulnerability affects Windows 7 SP1, Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1, Windows 8.1, Windows RT 8.1, Windows Server 2012 and R2, Windows 10 versions Gold, 1511, 1607, 1703, and Windows Server 2016, demonstrating the widespread impact across Microsoft's ecosystem. The flaw stems from improper object access patterns within browser memory management systems, which allows attackers to manipulate memory contents and execute malicious code with the privileges of the current user context.
This memory corruption vulnerability operates through a classic buffer overflow or memory access violation mechanism where browsers fail to properly validate or sanitize memory operations when rendering web content. The technical implementation involves browsers incorrectly handling memory references during object lifecycle management, particularly when processing certain web elements or JavaScript code that triggers unexpected memory access patterns. Attackers can exploit this by crafting malicious web pages or content that, when loaded in affected browsers, causes the memory corruption to occur, subsequently allowing arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations, both of which are common in memory corruption scenarios. The exploitation technique follows patterns consistent with the ATT&CK framework's T1059.007 sub-technique for command and scripting interpreter, where attackers leverage browser-based attack vectors to establish initial access and execute malicious payloads.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-8653 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to compromised systems with user-level privileges. Once exploited, attackers can establish backdoors, steal sensitive data, install additional malware, or use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability's presence in so many Windows versions means that organizations with legacy systems or those not regularly updated face significant exposure risks. The attack vector typically involves social engineering through phishing emails, malicious websites, or compromised legitimate sites that deliver exploit code to unsuspecting users. The fact that this vulnerability is distinct from CVE-2017-8669 indicates that Microsoft identified two separate memory corruption flaws, both requiring different exploitation techniques and mitigation approaches. Organizations affected by this vulnerability face potential data breaches, system compromise, and regulatory compliance issues, particularly in environments where sensitive information is processed through web browsers.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-8653 require immediate patch application from Microsoft as the primary defense mechanism, though organizations should also implement layered security controls. Network segmentation and browser hardening measures can reduce the attack surface, while monitoring for suspicious network traffic patterns and user behavior anomalies can help detect exploitation attempts. Security teams should implement web application firewalls and content filtering solutions to block potentially malicious content from reaching users. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify systems running unpatched versions of affected browsers. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing of patches in controlled environments before widespread deployment, ensuring that critical business applications remain functional. Additionally, user education programs should emphasize the importance of avoiding suspicious websites and email attachments, as the vulnerability often requires user interaction to be successfully exploited, making human factors a critical component of overall security posture.