CVE-2018-0770 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Edge in Windows 10 Gold, 1511, 1607, 1703, 1709, and Windows Server 2016 allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user, due to how the scripting engine handles objects in memory, aka "Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability". This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2018-0758, CVE-2018-0762, CVE-2018-0768, CVE-2018-0769, CVE-2018-0772, CVE-2018-0773, CVE-2018-0774, CVE-2018-0775, CVE-2018-0776, CVE-2018-0777, CVE-2018-0778, and CVE-2018-0781.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/30/2024
The scripting engine memory corruption vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-0770 affects Microsoft Edge browsers running on various Windows 10 versions including Gold, 1511, 1607, 1703, and 1709, as well as Windows Server 2016. This vulnerability represents a critical security flaw that enables remote code execution attacks by exploiting how the browser's scripting engine manages memory objects during runtime operations. The issue stems from improper handling of memory allocations and object references within the JavaScript engine, creating potential attack vectors for malicious actors to gain unauthorized system access. This vulnerability specifically targets the Chakra scripting engine that powers Microsoft Edge's JavaScript execution environment, making it particularly dangerous for web-based attacks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when malicious web content triggers memory corruption conditions within the scripting engine's object management system. Attackers can craft specially crafted web pages that, when loaded in Microsoft Edge, cause the browser to improperly handle memory objects leading to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the currently logged-in user. This memory corruption allows attackers to manipulate heap memory structures, potentially leading to stack overflow conditions or pointer corruption that can be leveraged to execute malicious payloads. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-125: Out-of-bounds Read and CWE-787: Out-of-bounds Write, representing both read and write memory access violations that can result in complete system compromise.
Operationally, this vulnerability poses significant risks to enterprise environments where Microsoft Edge is actively used as a primary browser for business applications and web-based services. The attack surface is broad since Edge is commonly used for accessing corporate portals, email systems, and web-based productivity tools. Successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise, allowing attackers to install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it requires no user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website, making it particularly dangerous for phishing campaigns and drive-by download attacks. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007: Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript, and T1068: Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, demonstrating how attackers can leverage the scripting engine flaw to escalate privileges and maintain persistent access.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the Microsoft security patches released in their respective monthly updates, as well as implementing browser isolation techniques and network-based protections. The recommended mitigation strategy involves deploying Microsoft Edge with security features such as Enhanced Protected Mode, which provides additional memory protection mechanisms. Security teams should also consider implementing web application firewalls and content filtering solutions to block access to known malicious domains. Additionally, user education regarding safe browsing practices and the risks of visiting untrusted websites remains crucial. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing defense-in-depth strategies, as the scripting engine memory corruption can be effectively mitigated through proper patch management and browser hardening configurations. Organizations should also monitor for indicators of compromise related to this vulnerability and ensure comprehensive incident response procedures are in place to address potential exploitation attempts.