CVE-2017-8669 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft browsers in Microsoft Windows 7 SP1, Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1, Windows 8.1 and Windows RT 8.1, Windows Server 2012 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 handling objects in memory while rendering content, aka "Microsoft Browser Memory Corruption Vulnerability". This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2017-8653.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/08/2021
The vulnerability described in CVE-2017-8669 represents a critical memory corruption flaw affecting multiple Microsoft browser implementations across various Windows operating systems. This vulnerability specifically impacts Internet Explorer and Microsoft Edge browsers, creating a pathway for remote code execution attacks that can be exploited by malicious actors. The flaw stems from improper handling of objects in memory during content rendering processes, which creates opportunities for attackers to manipulate browser memory structures and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the currently logged-in user. The vulnerability affects a broad range of Microsoft Windows versions including Windows 7 SP1, Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1, Windows 8.1, Windows RT 8.1, Windows Server 2012 R2, Windows 10 versions 1511, 1607, 1703, and Windows Server 2016, making it particularly dangerous due to its widespread impact across enterprise and consumer environments.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations in memory. These memory corruption issues typically occur when browsers fail to properly validate memory access boundaries during rendering operations, allowing attackers to craft malicious web content that triggers buffer overflows or other memory manipulation techniques. The vulnerability operates through a classic memory corruption attack vector where an attacker can control the execution flow of the browser process by manipulating how browser components handle memory objects during page rendering. This type of flaw falls under the ATT&CK technique T1059.001, which encompasses command and scripting interpreter execution, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute malicious commands within the browser context.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-8669 is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with a pathway to achieve persistent access to compromised systems without requiring additional privileges or exploitation techniques. Once successfully exploited, the vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user, potentially enabling them to install malware, steal sensitive data, establish persistence mechanisms, or escalate privileges to system-level access. The widespread nature of affected systems means that organizations with legacy Windows deployments are particularly vulnerable, as these systems often lack modern security mitigations and may not receive timely security updates. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw means that attackers can exploit it through web-based attacks without requiring physical access to target systems, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users frequently browse the internet and access potentially malicious websites.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying Microsoft security patches as soon as they become available, as this vulnerability was addressed through the August 2017 security updates. Network-based mitigations such as implementing web application firewalls and content filtering solutions can provide additional protection layers, though these should not be considered replacements for proper patch management. Browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary browser features, implementing strict security policies, and utilizing sandboxing technologies can reduce the attack surface and limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. System administrators should also consider implementing monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous browser behavior patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, particularly focusing on memory access violations and unusual code execution patterns. Additionally, user education programs should emphasize the importance of avoiding suspicious websites and email attachments, as social engineering remains a common initial vector for delivering exploit payloads targeting this type of vulnerability.