CVE-2018-8178 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability exists in the way that Microsoft browsers access objects in memory, aka "Microsoft Browser Memory Corruption Vulnerability." This affects ChakraCore, Internet Explorer 11, Microsoft Edge.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/08/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-8178 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft's browser implementations that enables remote code execution attacks. This vulnerability specifically impacts the ChakraCore JavaScript engine which serves as the foundation for Microsoft Edge's rendering engine and Internet Explorer 11's JavaScript processing capabilities. The flaw arises from improper handling of object references in memory management, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate memory contents and execute arbitrary code on affected systems.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from insufficient bounds checking and memory validation mechanisms within the ChakraCore engine. When browsers process certain JavaScript code or web content, the engine fails to properly validate object access patterns, leading to potential buffer overflows or memory corruption scenarios. This memory corruption can be exploited to overwrite critical memory locations, potentially allowing attackers to redirect program execution flow and inject malicious code. The vulnerability manifests when browsers encounter specific patterns of object manipulation that bypass normal safety checks implemented by the JavaScript engine.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to enterprise and individual users alike as it can be exploited through web browsers without requiring user interaction beyond visiting malicious websites. The attack surface is broad since it affects multiple Microsoft browser implementations including Internet Explorer 11 and Microsoft Edge, making it particularly dangerous for organizations with diverse browser environments. Successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise, allowing attackers to establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges, or exfiltrate sensitive data from affected systems.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 and CWE-122 categories related to stack and heap-based buffer overflows, respectively, while the exploitation techniques often map to ATT&CK tactics including initial access through malicious websites and execution via code injection methods. The recommended mitigation strategies include applying Microsoft's security patches promptly, implementing browser security enhancements such as sandboxing, and deploying network-based protections like web application firewalls. Organizations should also consider implementing security awareness training to reduce the risk of users inadvertently visiting compromised websites that could exploit this vulnerability.