CVE-2017-8748 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
Internet Explorer in Microsoft Windows 7 SP1, Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1, Windows 8.1 and Windows RT 8.1, Windows Server 2012 R2, and Microsoft Edge and Internet Explorer in 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 the way that the 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-2017-8660, CVE-2017-8729, CVE-2017-8738, CVE-2017-8740, CVE-2017-8741, CVE-2017-8752, CVE-2017-8753, CVE-2017-8755, CVE-2017-8756, and CVE-2017-11764.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/12/2021
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft's scripting engines that affects multiple versions of Internet Explorer and Microsoft Edge across various Windows operating systems. The vulnerability stems from how the JavaScript engines handle object rendering in memory, creating a condition where malicious code can be executed with the privileges of the currently logged-in user. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-125 Out-of-bounds Read category, as the engines fail to properly validate memory boundaries when processing JavaScript objects, leading to potential code execution. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it operates at the browser engine level, making it difficult to detect and exploit through traditional security measures.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a user visits a malicious website or opens a specially crafted document that triggers the flawed JavaScript engine behavior. Attackers can leverage this memory corruption to overwrite critical memory locations and inject their own malicious code, effectively taking control of the user's browser session. The vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution flaw that can be triggered without user interaction once the malicious content is loaded, making it particularly dangerous in phishing campaigns and drive-by download scenarios. According to ATT&CK framework, this maps to T1059.007 Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript, and T1203 Exploitation for Client Execution, demonstrating how attackers can use this vulnerability to establish persistent access to target systems.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-8748 extends beyond simple browser compromise, as successful exploitation can lead to full system compromise and lateral movement within network environments. Attackers can use this vulnerability to establish backdoors, steal sensitive data, or deploy additional malware payloads that persist even after the initial exploit is mitigated. The widespread availability of affected Windows versions means that organizations with legacy systems are particularly vulnerable, as these systems may not receive timely security updates. Network defenders must consider this vulnerability as a potential entry point for advanced persistent threats, especially in environments where users frequently browse untrusted websites or open email attachments. The vulnerability's classification as a privilege escalation vector means that even if users operate with standard privileges, successful exploitation can lead to elevated system access, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to expand their foothold within corporate networks.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including deploying Microsoft's security patches, configuring Internet Explorer's security zones to restrict access to untrusted websites, and implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent unauthorized code execution. The use of security software with exploit prevention capabilities can help detect and block attempts to leverage this vulnerability. Regular security assessments should focus on identifying outdated browsers and systems that remain vulnerable to this and similar memory corruption vulnerabilities. Network segmentation and user access controls can help limit the potential damage if exploitation occurs, while security monitoring should include detection of unusual JavaScript execution patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Given the vulnerability's age and the continued presence of affected systems in enterprise environments, organizations must maintain comprehensive vulnerability management programs that address both known and emerging threats targeting browser engine components.