CVE-2018-0889 in Internet Explorer
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-2018-0876, 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-2018-0889 represents a critical security flaw within Microsoft Edge browser implementation on multiple Windows operating systems including Windows 10 versions 1511, 1607, 1703, and 1709 along with Windows Server 2016. This vulnerability specifically targets the JavaScript engine's memory management mechanisms, creating a condition where malicious actors can manipulate how objects are handled in memory. The flaw manifests when the scripting engine processes certain objects in memory, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution on affected systems. This vulnerability operates at a fundamental level within the browser's execution environment, 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 JavaScript engine, specifically when processing objects that are allocated and managed in memory. According to CWE classification, this represents a memory corruption issue under CWE-125, where an application reads memory beyond the bounds of a buffer or object, or CWE-787, where an application writes to memory beyond the boundaries of a buffer. The vulnerability occurs during the normal operation of the scripting engine when it encounters specific object manipulation patterns that cause memory corruption. Attackers can leverage this flaw by crafting malicious web content that triggers the vulnerable code path, causing the JavaScript engine to corrupt memory in a way that allows execution of arbitrary code. The exploitation typically involves creating specific memory conditions that cause the engine to misbehave when handling object references and memory allocation.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-0889 extends beyond simple browser compromise, as successful exploitation can provide attackers with complete system control. This vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects widely deployed Windows operating systems and Microsoft Edge browser, which serves as the default browser for most Windows users. The remote code execution capability means that attackers can deliver malicious payloads through web browsers without requiring local system access, making it an ideal vector for phishing attacks, drive-by downloads, and other web-based exploitation techniques. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, where adversaries use web browsers to execute malicious code, and T1059, where they leverage scripting languages to achieve their objectives. The widespread deployment of affected Windows versions increases the potential attack surface significantly, as many enterprise and consumer systems remain vulnerable.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected systems, as Microsoft released security updates addressing this specific memory corruption issue. Organizations should prioritize deployment of the relevant security patches, particularly those released in the August 2018 security update cycle. Network administrators should implement additional protective measures including browser hardening configurations, sandboxing techniques, and network-based protections such as web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious content. The mitigation approach should align with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-128 and ISO 27001 frameworks, focusing on reducing attack surface and implementing defense-in-depth strategies. System administrators should also consider implementing monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous memory usage patterns or exploitation attempts that might indicate successful exploitation of this vulnerability. Additionally, user education regarding safe browsing practices and the importance of keeping systems updated remains crucial in defending against this class of memory corruption vulnerabilities that can lead to complete system compromise.