CVE-2018-8385 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 Internet Explorer 9, ChakraCore, Internet Explorer 11, Microsoft Edge, Internet Explorer 10. This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2018-8353, CVE-2018-8355, CVE-2018-8359, CVE-2018-8371, CVE-2018-8372, CVE-2018-8373, CVE-2018-8389, CVE-2018-8390.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/01/2023
This vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft's scripting engine that affects multiple browser platforms and versions. The issue stems from improper handling of objects in memory during script execution, creating a pathway for remote code execution attacks. The vulnerability specifically impacts Internet Explorer 9, 10, and 11, as well as Microsoft Edge and ChakraCore, making it particularly dangerous due to the widespread adoption of these platforms. The flaw exists in the way the scripting engine manages memory allocation and object references, allowing attackers to manipulate memory contents through carefully crafted malicious scripts.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability falls under CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations. Attackers can exploit this weakness by constructing malicious web content that triggers the flawed memory handling behavior, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the compromised browser process. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with the attack pattern described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1059.007 for script-based execution and T1068 for local privilege escalation techniques. The memory corruption occurs during the processing of JavaScript objects, where the scripting engine fails to properly validate memory boundaries when handling object references.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond individual user devices to potentially compromise entire enterprise networks through spear-phishing campaigns or malicious websites. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to deploy malware, establish persistent backdoors, or escalate privileges within the compromised system. The affected browsers represent common attack vectors given their widespread use in corporate environments and general internet browsing. Organizations running affected versions of Internet Explorer or Edge are particularly vulnerable since these browsers continue to be used in legacy systems and may not receive timely security updates. The vulnerability's remote execution capability means that users can be compromised simply by visiting malicious websites or opening compromised email attachments containing malicious scripts.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate deployment of Microsoft security patches, which address the underlying memory handling issues in the scripting engine. Organizations should implement browser hardening measures such as disabling unnecessary scripting features, implementing strict content security policies, and using sandboxing techniques to limit potential damage. Network-based protections like web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts. Users should be educated about the risks of visiting untrusted websites and opening suspicious email attachments. Security teams should monitor for exploitation attempts using threat intelligence feeds and implement endpoint detection and response solutions to identify potential compromise. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security practices and avoiding reliance on outdated browser versions that may contain unpatched security flaws.