CVE-2018-0763 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Edge in Microsoft Windows 10 1703 and 1709 allows information disclosure, due to how Edge handles objects in memory, aka "Microsoft Edge Information Disclosure Vulnerability". This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2018-0839.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/03/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-0763 represents a critical information disclosure flaw within Microsoft Edge browser when operating on Windows 10 versions 1703 and 1709. This security weakness stems from improper handling of objects in memory by the Edge rendering engine, creating potential exposure points for sensitive data. The vulnerability specifically affects the browser's memory management mechanisms and object handling processes, which are fundamental components of modern web browsers. Security researchers have classified this issue as an information disclosure vulnerability because it allows unauthorized access to memory contents that should remain protected. The flaw demonstrates how memory corruption issues in browser implementations can lead to significant security implications for end users. Microsoft has assigned this vulnerability a unique identifier separate from CVE-2018-0839, indicating distinct technical characteristics and exploitation vectors. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-200, which addresses "Information Exposure" in software systems, particularly highlighting improper handling of sensitive data within application memory spaces.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when Microsoft Edge processes web content and manages memory objects associated with web pages, scripts, and embedded elements. The browser's JavaScript engine and rendering components fail to properly sanitize or isolate memory objects during processing, leading to potential leakage of sensitive information. This memory handling flaw typically manifests when Edge encounters certain web page structures or JavaScript code patterns that trigger improper memory cleanup or object reuse. The vulnerability exploits the browser's memory management architecture, specifically targeting how temporary objects are stored and accessed in volatile memory regions. Attackers can potentially leverage this weakness to extract information such as passwords, session tokens, or other sensitive data that may be stored in memory during browser operations. The memory corruption occurs during normal browsing operations, making detection difficult and exploitation relatively straightforward for malicious actors. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK framework's technique T1059 for executing malicious code through scripting and T1074 for data staging, as it enables information gathering from compromised systems.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-0763 extends beyond simple information disclosure, potentially enabling more sophisticated attacks such as credential theft, session hijacking, or data exfiltration. When exploited successfully, this vulnerability allows attackers to access memory contents that contain sensitive user data, potentially compromising user accounts and confidential information. Organizations running affected Windows 10 versions face significant risk as this vulnerability affects the default browser on their systems, making it an attractive target for cybercriminals. The vulnerability affects both enterprise and individual users, as it exists in widely deployed operating system versions. Attackers can exploit this weakness without requiring user interaction, making it particularly dangerous in targeted attacks. The information disclosure can occur during normal browsing sessions, meaning users may unknowingly expose sensitive data to malicious actors. Security teams must consider this vulnerability when assessing their attack surface, as it represents a persistent threat vector that can be exploited across multiple user sessions and browsing activities. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it affects the primary web browser used for accessing enterprise resources and internet services.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-0763 primarily focus on applying Microsoft's security updates and patches to affected Windows 10 versions. Users should immediately install the relevant security updates released by Microsoft to address the memory handling issues in Edge browser. System administrators should prioritize deployment of these patches across all affected endpoints, particularly in enterprise environments where the vulnerability could be exploited for lateral movement. Organizations should implement network monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts targeting this vulnerability, as the information disclosure may manifest in unusual memory access patterns. Additional defensive measures include implementing browser hardening techniques such as disabling unnecessary JavaScript features, restricting access to sensitive data, and employing web application firewalls. Security teams should conduct vulnerability assessments to identify systems running affected Windows 10 versions and prioritize remediation efforts accordingly. The implementation of multi-factor authentication and strong session management can help reduce the impact if the vulnerability is successfully exploited. Regular security awareness training should emphasize the importance of keeping browsers and operating systems updated, as this vulnerability demonstrates how outdated software can create persistent security risks. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management systems to ensure timely deployment of security updates and prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.