CVE-2017-8660 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-2017-8649, CVE-2017-8729, CVE-2017-8738, CVE-2017-8740, CVE-2017-8741, CVE-2017-8748, CVE-2017-8752, CVE-2017-8753, CVE-2017-8755, CVE-2017-8756, and CVE-2017-11764.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/11/2021
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption issue within Microsoft Edge's JavaScript engine that affects multiple Windows 10 versions and Windows Server 2016. The flaw exists in how the browser's scripting engine handles memory objects during content rendering processes, creating a pathway for remote code execution attacks. The vulnerability specifically targets the V8 JavaScript engine component that powers Microsoft Edge's browser functionality, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through web-based attacks without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website. Security researchers identified this issue as a classic buffer overflow condition that occurs when the engine improperly manages memory allocation and deallocation during JavaScript object processing. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-125 as an out-of-bounds read condition that can lead to arbitrary code execution, which aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter usage. Attackers can leverage this flaw by crafting malicious web pages that trigger the vulnerable code path when the browser attempts to render specific JavaScript objects in memory, potentially allowing them to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the current user.
The exploitation of this vulnerability demonstrates the inherent risks associated with modern browser architectures that must handle complex scripting languages while maintaining memory safety. The affected systems include Windows 10 versions 1511, 1607, and 1703, as well as Windows Server 2016, indicating a broad attack surface that spans multiple Microsoft operating system releases. The memory corruption occurs during the JavaScript engine's handling of objects in memory, specifically when processing certain object types that cause the engine to access memory locations outside of proper bounds. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be triggered through standard web browsing activities, making it an ideal candidate for drive-by download attacks. The vulnerability's classification as a scripting engine memory corruption aligns with common attack patterns found in browser exploitation frameworks, where attackers target the most frequently used components of web browsers to maximize their attack surface. The fact that this vulnerability is distinct from several other CVEs indicates it represents a unique code path within the JavaScript engine that was not covered by existing mitigations for related issues.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it provides attackers with complete control over affected systems. When successfully exploited, the vulnerability allows remote code execution in the context of the current user, meaning attackers can install malware, steal data, or establish persistent access to compromised systems. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where multiple users may be browsing the internet simultaneously. The memory corruption can result in system crashes, data corruption, or more sinisterly, provide attackers with a foothold for further lateral movement within network environments. Organizations running affected versions of Windows 10 and Windows Server 2016 face significant risk exposure, as this vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including malicious websites, phishing emails, or compromised legitimate websites. The vulnerability's potential for remote code execution without user interaction makes it especially dangerous as it can be exploited automatically when users visit compromised websites. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability can be combined with other exploitation techniques to create more sophisticated attack chains, potentially leading to full system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patch deployment as Microsoft released security updates to address the memory corruption issue in affected versions of Edge and the underlying Windows operating systems. Organizations should prioritize updating their systems to the latest Windows 10 and Windows Server 2016 releases that contain the relevant security patches. Additional protective measures include implementing browser security controls such as enabling sandboxing features, disabling unnecessary browser components, and deploying web application firewalls to monitor and filter potentially malicious traffic. Network segmentation and intrusion detection systems can help identify exploitation attempts by monitoring for suspicious network activity related to known exploit patterns. Security teams should also consider implementing user education programs to reduce the risk of successful social engineering attacks that might leverage this vulnerability. The vulnerability's nature as a scripting engine memory corruption makes it particularly challenging to defend against through traditional network security controls, requiring a layered approach that combines software updates, browser hardening, and behavioral monitoring. Organizations should also consider implementing advanced threat hunting techniques to identify potential exploitation attempts in their environments, as the vulnerability's exploitation may not always result in immediate system compromise but could be used to establish persistent backdoors. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to ensure that systems remain protected against this and similar memory corruption vulnerabilities.