CVE-2018-1022 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability exists in the way the scripting engine handles objects in memory in Microsoft browsers, aka "Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability." This affects ChakraCore, Internet Explorer 11, Microsoft Edge. This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2018-0945, CVE-2018-0946, CVE-2018-0951, CVE-2018-0953, CVE-2018-0954, CVE-2018-0955, CVE-2018-8114, CVE-2018-8122, CVE-2018-8128, CVE-2018-8137, CVE-2018-8139.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/11/2023
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft's scripting engine that affects multiple browser platforms including Internet Explorer 11 and Microsoft Edge. The issue stems from how the ChakraCore JavaScript engine manages object references in memory, creating opportunities for attackers to execute arbitrary code remotely. The vulnerability specifically targets the scripting engine's memory management mechanisms, where improper handling of object lifecycles and memory allocation can lead to unpredictable behavior and potential code execution. This type of vulnerability falls under the broader category of memory safety issues that have historically been among the most dangerous classes of flaws in software systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves exploitation of memory corruption patterns that occur when the scripting engine processes certain JavaScript objects and their associated memory structures. Attackers can craft malicious web pages that trigger specific memory access patterns, causing the engine to corrupt memory in predictable ways that can be leveraged for code execution. The flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with heap-based buffer overflows and use-after-free conditions, where the engine's memory management routines fail to properly validate object references before accessing or modifying memory locations. This vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the core engine level, making it difficult to detect and prevent through traditional application-level security measures.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends across multiple Microsoft browser platforms, creating a widespread attack surface for threat actors. Remote code execution capabilities mean that attackers can compromise systems simply by persuading users to visit malicious websites or open specially crafted web content. The vulnerability's presence in both Internet Explorer 11 and Microsoft Edge platforms creates significant risk for organizations that maintain legacy browser support or have users accessing potentially compromised web content. The fact that this vulnerability is distinct from several other related CVEs indicates a specific and well-defined flaw in the memory management implementation rather than a general class of issues. This makes it particularly dangerous as attackers can develop targeted exploitation techniques that are specific to this memory corruption pattern.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patch deployment across affected systems, as the memory corruption nature makes it extremely difficult to defend against through network-level controls or application firewalls. Organizations should prioritize updating to Microsoft's security patches that address the specific memory management flaws in the ChakraCore engine. System administrators should implement browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary JavaScript features, implementing content security policies, and using sandboxing technologies to limit the impact of potential exploitation. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK techniques related to exploitation of memory corruption flaws and remote code execution, making it a prime target for advanced persistent threat actors. Organizations should also consider implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous JavaScript execution patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Given the nature of this vulnerability, regular security assessments of browser-based applications and user education about avoiding suspicious web content remain critical defensive measures.
This vulnerability represents a classic example of how memory safety issues in core software components can create widespread security risks. The specific targeting of the scripting engine's memory management functions demonstrates the importance of rigorous code review processes for low-level system components. The distinct nature of this CVE compared to related vulnerabilities indicates that the flaw is not simply a general memory management issue but rather a specific implementation weakness that requires targeted remediation. Security professionals should understand that vulnerabilities of this type often require immediate attention due to their exploitation potential and the difficulty of implementing effective workarounds. The presence of this vulnerability across multiple Microsoft platforms underscores the need for comprehensive vulnerability management programs that address all components of the browser ecosystem.