CVE-2018-0781 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-2018-0776, CVE-2018-0777, and CVE-2018-0778.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/28/2021
This vulnerability resides within Microsoft Edge's scripting engine, specifically affecting Windows 10 versions 1511, 1607, 1703, and 1709 along with Windows Server 2016. The flaw manifests as a memory corruption issue that occurs when the scripting engine processes objects in memory, creating a path for arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-125 as an out-of-bounds read condition, where the engine fails to properly validate memory boundaries during object handling operations. This particular weakness allows attackers to manipulate memory structures in ways that bypass normal execution constraints, effectively elevating privileges to the current user context without requiring administrative rights.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it represents a critical vector for privilege escalation attacks within the Windows environment. Attackers can leverage this flaw through malicious web content or compromised websites that trigger the vulnerable scripting engine path. The vulnerability's persistence across multiple Windows 10 releases and Server 2016 indicates a fundamental issue in the engine's memory management rather than a localized patchable condition. From an adversarial perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for script-based execution, where attackers can craft malicious JavaScript or VBScript content to exploit the memory corruption. The flaw's uniqueness from related CVEs suggests a distinct memory handling pattern that differentiates it from other scripting engine vulnerabilities in the same timeframe.
The exploitation process typically involves delivering malicious content through web browsers, where the vulnerable Edge engine processes crafted objects that trigger the memory corruption. This attack surface is particularly dangerous because it requires no user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website, making it a prime target for drive-by download attacks. The vulnerability's presence in Windows Server 2016 adds additional risk for enterprise environments where Edge may be used for administrative tasks. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability operates at the kernel level memory management, making traditional user-mode protections ineffective. Mitigation strategies include applying Microsoft's security patches immediately, implementing browser isolation techniques, and deploying network-based protections that can detect and block exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider disabling unnecessary scripting capabilities and maintaining updated threat intelligence feeds to identify potential exploitation attempts targeting this specific memory corruption pattern. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper memory validation in modern browser engines, as even minor flaws in object handling can result in complete system compromise.