CVE-2017-8752 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 the Microsoft Edge scripting engine handles 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-2017-8748, CVE-2017-8753, CVE-2017-8755, CVE-2017-8756, and CVE-2017-11764.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/22/2024
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft Edge's scripting engine that affects multiple Windows 10 versions and Windows Server 2016 systems. The issue stems from improper handling of objects in memory during script execution, creating a pathway for remote code execution attacks. The vulnerability specifically impacts the Chakra scripting engine used by Microsoft Edge, which is responsible for executing javascript and other scripting languages within the browser environment. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious web content that triggers the memory corruption when processed by the browser's rendering engine.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions that can lead to memory corruption and arbitrary code execution. The flaw occurs when the scripting engine fails to properly validate memory operations during object manipulation, potentially allowing attackers to overwrite critical memory locations or execute malicious code within the context of the currently logged-in user. This particular vulnerability is distinct from several others in the same vulnerability family, including CVE-2017-8649 through CVE-2017-11764, each representing different memory corruption vectors within the same Chakra engine. The attack surface is particularly concerning because it requires no user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website, making it a prime target for drive-by download attacks and phishing campaigns.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risk to enterprise environments where Windows 10 systems are deployed. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the current user, potentially leading to full system compromise if the user has administrative rights. The vulnerability affects systems running Windows 10 versions 1511, 1607, and 1703, as well as Windows Server 2016, which represents a substantial portion of enterprise deployments at the time of disclosure. The attack vector through web browsing makes it particularly dangerous as users may inadvertently encounter malicious content while performing routine online activities, such as visiting compromised websites or clicking on malicious links in emails or documents.
Security professionals should implement immediate mitigations including applying the relevant Microsoft security updates and patches that address this memory corruption vulnerability. Organizations should also consider implementing browser hardening measures such as enabling enhanced protection modes, restricting access to potentially malicious websites through content filtering solutions, and maintaining up-to-date network intrusion detection systems. The vulnerability's classification under the ATT&CK framework would be categorized under T1059 for command and scripting interpreter and potentially T1203 for exploitation for privilege escalation. Additionally, security teams should monitor for indicators of compromise related to unusual memory access patterns or unexpected code execution within browser processes, as these may signal exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should include verification of patch status for this and related vulnerabilities to ensure comprehensive protection against this and similar memory corruption threats.