CVE-2018-8287 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, Internet Explorer 10. This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2018-8242, CVE-2018-8283, CVE-2018-8288, CVE-2018-8291, CVE-2018-8296, CVE-2018-8298.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/05/2023
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft's scripting engine that affects multiple browser platforms and versions. The issue manifests when the ChakraCore JavaScript engine processes objects in memory, creating conditions where malicious code can manipulate memory addresses and execute arbitrary commands remotely. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of object references and memory management during script execution, allowing attackers to exploit memory layout assumptions and overwrite critical execution structures. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the core engine level where JavaScript code interacts directly with system memory, making it a prime target for sophisticated attack chains.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows patterns consistent with memory corruption attacks classified under CWE-121 and CWE-125, where insufficient bounds checking allows for buffer overflows or memory corruption scenarios. Attackers can leverage this flaw by crafting malicious web pages that trigger specific JavaScript code sequences, causing the browser's scripting engine to corrupt memory structures and subsequently execute attacker-controlled code with the privileges of the compromised browser process. The vulnerability affects Internet Explorer 10 and 11, as well as Microsoft Edge browsers, making it particularly impactful given the widespread deployment of these platforms in enterprise environments. The attack surface extends beyond traditional web browsing to include scenarios where users might encounter malicious content through email attachments, web applications, or compromised websites.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-8287 extends far beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to target systems and enables lateral movement within networks. Once successfully exploited, the vulnerability allows threat actors to establish backdoors, escalate privileges, and deploy additional malware payloads without user interaction. The attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for JavaScript execution and T1078 for legitimate credentials use, as the exploited browser process typically runs with elevated privileges and can access system resources. Organizations with legacy Internet Explorer deployments face heightened risk, as these browsers often lack modern security mitigations and receive limited security updates. The vulnerability's remote exploitation capability means that attackers can compromise systems from anywhere in the world, making it particularly attractive for nation-state actors and organized cybercriminal groups targeting enterprise networks.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patch deployment across all affected Microsoft browsers and operating systems, as the vulnerability has been fully addressed through Microsoft Security Updates. Organizations should implement network-based protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering solutions to block malicious JavaScript content, while also deploying exploit protection mechanisms like DEP, ASLR, and Control Flow Guard to make exploitation more difficult. Browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary scripting features, implementing strict content security policies, and using sandboxing techniques can significantly reduce the attack surface. Security teams should also monitor for indicators of compromise related to this vulnerability, including unusual network connections, suspicious process creation patterns, and anomalous JavaScript execution behavior. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should focus on identifying legacy browser installations that may not have received the necessary security updates, while implementing automated patch management systems to ensure timely vulnerability remediation across all endpoints.