CVE-2018-8459 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability exists in the way that the ChakraCore scripting engine handles objects in memory, aka "Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability." This affects Microsoft Edge, ChakraCore. This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2018-8354, CVE-2018-8391, CVE-2018-8456, CVE-2018-8457.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/08/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-8459 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within Microsoft's ChakraCore JavaScript engine that operates as the core component of Microsoft Edge browser and other applications utilizing this scripting engine. This memory corruption vulnerability specifically targets how ChakraCore manages object handling in memory, creating an exploitable condition that adversaries can leverage to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The flaw exists at the fundamental level of object memory management within the JavaScript engine, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through web-based attacks without requiring user interaction or specific privileges. The vulnerability affects not only Microsoft Edge but also any application that relies on ChakraCore for JavaScript execution, significantly broadening its potential attack surface.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through memory corruption techniques that manipulate how ChakraCore allocates, manages, and accesses object references in memory. Attackers can craft malicious JavaScript code that, when executed by the vulnerable engine, causes memory corruption that leads to arbitrary code execution. This typically involves manipulating object pointers, heap memory structures, or memory layout in ways that allow attackers to overwrite critical memory regions or redirect execution flow. The vulnerability is classified as a memory corruption issue under CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions that can lead to memory corruption, and may also relate to CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds writes that can corrupt memory. The exploitation process often involves techniques such as heap spraying, use-after-free conditions, or pointer manipulation that leverage the flawed memory management within ChakraCore's object handling mechanisms.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-8459 extends beyond simple browser exploitation to encompass a wide range of potential attack vectors and consequences for enterprise environments. Organizations running applications that utilize ChakraCore are at risk of remote code execution attacks that could result in complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and lateral movement within networks. The vulnerability's presence in Microsoft Edge makes it particularly concerning for web-based attacks, as users can be compromised simply by visiting malicious websites or opening specially crafted emails containing malicious JavaScript content. Security researchers have noted that the vulnerability can be exploited in browser sandbox escape scenarios, where attackers bypass security boundaries to gain elevated privileges on affected systems. This capability aligns with ATT&CK techniques such as T1059.007 for JavaScript execution and T1068 for exploit development, making it a significant concern for both enterprise security teams and threat intelligence organizations monitoring for active exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-8459 primarily focus on immediate patch deployment and application of Microsoft security updates that address the underlying memory corruption in ChakraCore. Organizations should prioritize updating Microsoft Edge and any applications that utilize ChakraCore to the latest security patches released by Microsoft, as these updates contain fixes for the memory management flaws that enable the exploit. Additionally, implementing network-based security controls such as web application firewalls, content filtering systems, and browser hardening measures can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. Security teams should also consider deploying exploit prevention tools and monitoring for suspicious JavaScript execution patterns that may indicate attempted exploitation. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing defense-in-depth strategies that limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Organizations should also conduct vulnerability assessments to identify all applications and systems that rely on ChakraCore and ensure comprehensive remediation across their entire infrastructure to prevent potential attackers from leveraging this vulnerability for persistent access or data compromise.