CVE-2017-8657 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Edge in Microsoft Windows 10 1511, 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-2017-8656, 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 issue within Microsoft Edge's JavaScript engine that affects multiple Windows 10 versions and Windows Server 2016 systems. The flaw manifests when the browser's rendering engine processes objects in memory, creating opportunities for attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the currently logged-in user. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-125 weakness category, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds read conditions that can lead to memory corruption and potential code execution. The vulnerability's classification as a scripting engine memory corruption aligns with the ATT&CK framework's technique T1059.007, which covers script-based execution through web browsers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the way Microsoft's Chakra JavaScript engine handles memory management during object rendering processes. When Edge encounters certain malformed or specially crafted objects in memory, the engine fails to properly validate memory boundaries, leading to unpredictable behavior that attackers can leverage for code execution. This particular flaw demonstrates the inherent complexity of modern JavaScript engines and their susceptibility to memory management issues that can be triggered through carefully constructed web content. The vulnerability affects Windows 10 versions 1511, 1607, and 1703, as well as Windows Server 2016, making it particularly concerning given the widespread deployment of these operating systems across enterprise environments.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as successful exploitation could allow attackers to bypass security boundaries and access sensitive user data or system resources. Attackers typically leverage this vulnerability through drive-by download scenarios where users visit compromised websites containing malicious JavaScript code. The attack vector requires user interaction through web browsing, but once executed, the malicious code can establish persistence mechanisms or escalate privileges further. This vulnerability represents a significant risk to organizations as it provides a direct path to code execution without requiring elevated privileges, making it particularly attractive to threat actors targeting enterprise environments. The fact that this vulnerability affects multiple Windows 10 releases and Windows Server 2016 creates a broad attack surface that organizations must address through timely patch management and security updates.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patch deployment through Microsoft's regular security updates, as well as implementing network-based protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering solutions. Organizations should also consider implementing browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary JavaScript features, restricting access to potentially malicious websites, and employing advanced threat detection systems that can identify anomalous behavior patterns associated with exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's nature makes it particularly susceptible to automated exploitation, so organizations should prioritize rapid remediation and maintain continuous monitoring for potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege configurations and regular security assessments can help reduce the overall risk exposure associated with this class of memory corruption vulnerabilities.