CVE-2018-0876 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Edge in Windows 10 Gold, 1511, 1607, 1703, 1709, and Windows Server 2016 allows remote code execution, due to how the scripting engine handles objects in memory, aka "Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability". This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2018-0889, CVE-2018-0893, CVE-2018-0925, and CVE-2018-0935.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/21/2023
The scripting engine memory corruption vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-0876 represents a critical security flaw in Microsoft Edge browser versions shipped with Windows 10 operating system releases including Gold, 1511, 1607, 1703, and 1709, along with Windows Server 2016. This vulnerability specifically targets the JavaScript engine's memory management mechanisms, creating a pathway for remote code execution attacks that can compromise entire systems. The flaw exists within how Edge processes and handles objects in memory during script execution, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through web-based attacks without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper memory handling within Edge's scripting engine, which falls under CWE-125: "Out-of-bounds Read" and CWE-787: "Out-of-bounds Write" categories. When Edge processes certain JavaScript code, the engine fails to properly validate memory boundaries, allowing attackers to manipulate object references and corrupt memory regions. This memory corruption can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the Edge process, which typically runs with limited user privileges but can potentially be escalated through additional attack vectors. The vulnerability's exploitation requires careful crafting of malicious JavaScript payloads that can trigger the memory corruption condition through specific object manipulation patterns.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to enterprise environments where Microsoft Edge serves as the default browser for web-based productivity applications and internal portal access. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access to compromised systems, deploy additional malware, or conduct reconnaissance activities without detection. The vulnerability's presence across multiple Windows 10 releases and Windows Server 2016 creates widespread exposure, as organizations may have mixed environments with various operating system versions. The remote code execution capability means that attackers can compromise systems from anywhere on the internet, making this vulnerability particularly attractive for large-scale attack campaigns.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying Microsoft's security patches released in March 2018 as part of the Microsoft Security Response Center's coordinated vulnerability disclosure process. Network-based mitigations such as implementing web application firewalls and content filtering solutions can provide additional protection layers while patches are deployed. Security teams should also consider implementing browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary JavaScript features, implementing strict content security policies, and monitoring for anomalous browser behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007: "Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript" and T1068: "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation" which provides guidance for both defensive measures and incident response procedures when such vulnerabilities are detected in operational environments.