CVE-2017-8656 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Edge in Microsoft Windows 10 1607, 1703, and Windows Server 2016 allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user due to the way that Microsoft browser JavaScript engines render content when handling objects in memory, aka "Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability". This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2017-8634, CVE-2017-8635, CVE-2017-8636, CVE-2017-8638, CVE-2017-8639, CVE-2017-8640, CVE-2017-8641, CVE-2017-8645, CVE-2017-8646, CVE-2017-8647, CVE-2017-8655, CVE-2017-8657, CVE-2017-8670, CVE-2017-8671, CVE-2017-8672, and CVE-2017-8674.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/22/2024
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft Edge's JavaScript engine that affects Windows 10 versions 1607 and 1703, as well as Windows Server 2016. The issue stems from improper handling of objects in memory during JavaScript execution, creating a pathway for remote code execution attacks. The vulnerability specifically targets the scripting engine's memory management capabilities, where insufficient bounds checking and memory validation allow attackers to manipulate heap memory structures. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-125 weakness category, which represents "Out-of-bounds Read" conditions that can lead to memory corruption and arbitrary code execution. The flaw enables attackers to execute malicious code with the privileges of the current user, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users often have elevated access rights.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when Microsoft Edge processes web content containing malicious JavaScript code that triggers memory corruption during object manipulation. Attackers can craft specially crafted web pages that, when loaded in Edge, cause the browser's JavaScript engine to improperly handle memory allocations and deallocations. This memory corruption can lead to overwrite of critical memory regions, potentially allowing attackers to redirect execution flow or inject malicious payloads. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it operates within the browser's rendering context, meaning that simply visiting a compromised website could result in system compromise. The flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with the ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which involves the use of scripting languages for execution, combined with T1068, which focuses on exploiting local privileges to escalate access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond individual user compromise to potentially affect entire enterprise networks, especially when considering that many organizations rely heavily on Microsoft Edge for business operations. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability through drive-by download scenarios, where visiting a malicious website automatically triggers the exploit without requiring user interaction beyond normal browsing. The vulnerability's presence in Windows Server 2016 makes it particularly concerning for server environments where Edge might be used for administrative tasks or development purposes. Organizations running affected versions of Windows 10 and Server 2016 face significant risk of persistent threats, as the exploit can be used to establish footholds for further reconnaissance and lateral movement within networks. The vulnerability's similarity to other related CVEs in the same timeframe indicates a broader pattern of scripting engine weaknesses that require comprehensive security measures beyond individual patching.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate deployment of Microsoft's security updates, which address the memory corruption issues in Edge's JavaScript engine. Organizations should implement network-based protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering solutions to prevent access to known malicious domains. Browser hardening techniques including disabling unnecessary JavaScript features, implementing strict content security policies, and using sandboxing mechanisms can significantly reduce exploitation risk. Security teams should also consider implementing endpoint detection and response solutions that can identify anomalous memory access patterns consistent with exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify systems running affected versions of Windows, while user education programs can help reduce the risk of accidental exploitation through social engineering attacks. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing defense-in-depth strategies to protect against sophisticated browser-based attacks.