CVE-2018-0776 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-2018-0770, CVE-2018-0772, CVE-2018-0773, CVE-2018-0774, CVE-2018-0775, CVE-2018-0777, CVE-2018-0778, and CVE-2018-0781.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/11/2025
This vulnerability affects Microsoft Edge browsers running on various Windows 10 versions including Gold, 1511, 1607, 1703, and 1709, as well as Windows Server 2016 systems. The flaw resides in the scripting engine's memory handling mechanisms, specifically when processing objects in memory. Attackers can exploit this memory corruption vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the current user, representing a significant escalation from typical browser-based attacks. The vulnerability stems from improper memory management during object manipulation, creating opportunities for code injection and system compromise. This issue is classified under CWE-125 as an out-of-bounds read condition, which directly relates to memory corruption vulnerabilities in scripting environments. The flaw demonstrates how memory management errors in web browsers can provide attackers with direct execution paths, making it particularly dangerous in targeted attack scenarios.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through carefully crafted web content that triggers the scripting engine to improperly handle memory objects. When Edge processes malicious JavaScript or HTML content, the engine fails to properly validate memory boundaries during object operations, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged for code execution. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK framework category of T1059.007 for Windows Scripting and T1203 for Exploitation for Client Execution, demonstrating how attackers can use browser-based vulnerabilities to gain system-level access. The memory corruption aspect aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 for Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, as successful exploitation results in elevated privileges. The vulnerability's persistence across multiple Windows versions indicates a fundamental issue in the Edge browser's scripting engine architecture rather than a simple patchable bug.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple browser compromise, as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary code with the user's privileges, potentially leading to full system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent access to target systems. The fact that this affects multiple Windows 10 releases and Windows Server 2016 means that organizations with diverse Windows environments face significant exposure. Security teams must consider this vulnerability as part of broader attack surface management, particularly in environments where users browse untrusted websites or receive phishing emails. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw places it in the highest risk category, as it requires no local access or user interaction beyond visiting malicious websites, making it particularly attractive to threat actors. Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including browser updates, network segmentation, and enhanced monitoring for suspicious browser activity.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patch deployment across all affected Windows systems, as Microsoft released security updates to address the scripting engine memory corruption. Organizations should also implement browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary scripting features, implementing content security policies, and using sandboxing techniques to limit potential damage. Network-based protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should focus on unusual browser process behavior, memory access patterns, and unexpected code execution attempts. Additionally, user education about avoiding suspicious websites and email attachments remains crucial, as social engineering often accompanies technical exploitation of such vulnerabilities. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing layered defense strategies to protect against sophisticated exploitation techniques.