CVE-2018-0772 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
Internet Explorer in Microsoft Windows 7 SP1, Windows Server 2008 and R2 SP1, Windows 8.1 and Windows RT 8.1, Windows Server 2012 and R2, and Internet Explorer and 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-2018-0770, 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 • 01/28/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-0772 represents a critical memory corruption issue within Microsoft Internet Explorer's scripting engine that affects multiple Windows operating systems and browser versions. This flaw exists in the way the scripting engine manages objects in memory, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote code execution with the privileges of the currently logged-in user. The vulnerability impacts a broad range of Microsoft products including Windows 7 SP1, Windows Server 2008 and R2 SP1, Windows 8.1, Windows RT 8.1, Windows Server 2012 and R2, and various versions of Windows 10 and Windows Server 2016. The scripting engine's improper handling of memory objects creates a pathway for attackers to inject malicious code that can execute with the same privileges as the legitimate user, potentially leading to full system compromise.
This memory corruption vulnerability falls under the CWE-125 weakness category, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds read conditions that can result in memory corruption and arbitrary code execution. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under the T1059.007 technique, which involves the use of scripting languages for execution, and the T1068 technique for privilege escalation through local exploitation. The vulnerability's exploitation requires careful crafting of malicious web content that triggers the specific memory handling flaw within the scripting engine, typically through JavaScript or VBScript execution within Internet Explorer. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by hosting malicious web pages that, when loaded in Internet Explorer, cause the scripting engine to improperly handle memory objects, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged for code execution.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-0772 is severe and far-reaching given the widespread adoption of affected Windows versions and Internet Explorer. Organizations running these vulnerable systems face significant risk of unauthorized access, data exfiltration, and persistent threats that can escalate to full system compromise. The vulnerability's exploitation does not require special privileges beyond those of a regular user, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users may have elevated access rights. The memory corruption can lead to various malicious outcomes including browser process compromise, system privilege escalation, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability affects both desktop and server operating systems, creating widespread exposure across enterprise infrastructure, particularly in environments where legacy systems remain operational.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-0772 should prioritize immediate patch deployment through Microsoft's regular security updates, as the vulnerability has been addressed in subsequent security releases. Organizations should implement network-based protections including web application firewalls and content filtering solutions to block access to known malicious domains. Browser hardening measures such as disabling unnecessary scripting languages, implementing strict security zones, and enabling enhanced protection modes can reduce exploitation success rates. The implementation of principle of least privilege controls and user account protection mechanisms can limit the impact if exploitation occurs. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual browser process behavior, memory access patterns, and network connections originating from compromised systems. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing endpoint detection and response solutions that can identify and contain exploitation attempts before they result in successful compromise. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should verify the effectiveness of implemented controls and identify potential additional exposure areas.