CVE-2018-8122 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability exists in the way that the scripting engine handles objects in memory in Internet Explorer, aka "Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability." This affects Internet Explorer 11. 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-2018-1022, CVE-2018-8114, CVE-2018-8128, CVE-2018-8137, CVE-2018-8139.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/11/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-8122 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within Microsoft Internet Explorer 11's scripting engine, specifically concerning how it manages objects in memory. This memory corruption vulnerability stems from improper handling of JavaScript objects during runtime execution, creating opportunities for attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. The issue affects only Internet Explorer 11 and does not extend to other browsers or versions of Internet Explorer, making it a targeted concern for organizations still maintaining legacy browser environments.
This vulnerability operates through a memory corruption mechanism that occurs when the scripting engine processes certain JavaScript objects in memory. The flaw manifests when maliciously crafted web content triggers improper memory management within the engine's object handling routines. According to CWE-125, this vulnerability maps to an out-of-bounds read condition where the scripting engine attempts to access memory locations beyond the allocated boundaries for JavaScript objects. The memory corruption allows attackers to manipulate the execution flow of the browser, potentially leading to full system compromise when users visit malicious websites or interact with compromised web content.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-8122 extends beyond simple browser exploitation, as it provides attackers with a pathway to achieve persistent system compromise through the Internet Explorer 11 browser. This vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be exploited remotely without user interaction, making it a prime candidate for automated attacks and mass exploitation campaigns. The attack surface includes any system running Internet Explorer 11 that visits malicious websites or opens compromised email attachments containing malicious web content. Organizations with legacy systems still using Internet Explorer 11 face significant risk exposure, as the vulnerability can be leveraged for data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and deployment of additional malware.
From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques such as T1059.007 for JavaScript execution and T1203 for exploitation of remote services. The attack chain typically begins with initial access through phishing emails or compromised websites, followed by exploitation of the memory corruption vulnerability to achieve code execution. Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate patch deployment through Microsoft's security updates, as well as browser hardening measures including disabling script execution in trusted zones and implementing network-based protections such as web application firewalls. Organizations should also consider migrating away from Internet Explorer 11 to modern browser alternatives that receive regular security updates and have more robust memory protection mechanisms. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date browser security patches and implementing layered defense strategies to protect against sophisticated exploitation techniques targeting legacy browser components.