CVE-2018-8137 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability exists in the way that the scripting engine handles objects in memory in Microsoft Edge, aka "Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability." This affects Microsoft Edge, ChakraCore. 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-2018-8122, CVE-2018-8128, CVE-2018-8139.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/11/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-8137 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within Microsoft Edge's scripting engine, specifically within the ChakraCore JavaScript engine that powers the browser's execution environment. This memory corruption vulnerability arises from improper handling of objects in memory during script execution, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The issue stems from the way the scripting engine manages memory allocation and object references, particularly when processing complex JavaScript objects that may contain overlapping or improperly managed memory regions. The vulnerability affects not only Microsoft Edge but also ChakraCore, indicating its impact extends beyond the browser to any application utilizing this JavaScript engine component.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a maliciously crafted webpage is loaded in Microsoft Edge, triggering a memory corruption condition that allows attackers to manipulate the execution flow of the JavaScript engine. This typically involves creating specific JavaScript objects that, when processed by the ChakraCore engine, cause memory pointers to become corrupted or overwritten, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the Edge process. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-125 as "Out-of-bounds Read" and is related to improper memory management practices that can result in information disclosure, system compromise, or complete system takeover. Attackers can leverage this flaw by crafting malicious web content that, when rendered by Edge, triggers the memory corruption condition and executes malicious payloads.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-8137 is severe as it enables attackers to achieve remote code execution without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website, making it particularly dangerous in phishing campaigns or compromised websites. This vulnerability can be exploited in various attack scenarios including drive-by downloads, watering hole attacks, and targeted campaigns against specific user groups. The exploitation typically requires no user interaction once the malicious page is loaded, as the vulnerability is triggered during normal script execution. The attack surface is extensive given that Microsoft Edge is widely used across enterprise environments, making organizations particularly vulnerable to this type of remote exploitation. The vulnerability's presence in ChakraCore also means that any application or service that utilizes this JavaScript engine for scripting purposes could be at risk, extending the potential attack surface beyond traditional web browsers.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the relevant Microsoft security updates and patches released in August 2018 as part of the Microsoft Edge security updates. Network-based protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems can help reduce the risk of exploitation by blocking known malicious content. Browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary JavaScript features, implementing strict content security policies, and using sandboxing techniques can provide additional defense layers. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 "Exploitation for Client Execution" and T1059.007 "Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript," demonstrating how attackers can leverage browser-based scripting engines to execute malicious code. Regular security assessments and monitoring for anomalous JavaScript execution patterns should be implemented to detect potential exploitation attempts, while user education about visiting untrusted websites remains crucial in reducing overall risk exposure.