CVE-2018-8460 in Internet Explorer
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability exists when Internet Explorer improperly accesses objects in memory, aka "Internet Explorer Memory Corruption Vulnerability." This affects Internet Explorer 11. This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2018-8491.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/23/2023
The vulnerability described in CVE-2018-8460 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Internet Explorer 11 that enables remote code execution attacks. This vulnerability stems from improper handling of object references in memory, specifically when Internet Explorer processes certain web content that triggers malformed memory operations. The flaw occurs during the normal operation of the browser when it encounters specially crafted web pages that exploit memory management inconsistencies in the browser's rendering engine. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by delivering malicious web content that, when viewed in Internet Explorer 11, causes the browser to corrupt memory structures and subsequently execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the logged-in user. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-125 vulnerability class, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds read conditions that can lead to memory corruption and arbitrary code execution. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it affects one of the most widely used browsers in enterprise environments, making it a prime target for nation-state actors and sophisticated threat groups.
The technical exploitation of CVE-2018-8460 relies on Internet Explorer's JavaScript engine and its interaction with memory management functions during page rendering. When a user visits a malicious website containing crafted HTML or JavaScript code, the browser's memory corruption occurs during object handling operations, specifically when dealing with memory pointers and object references. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the kernel level memory management, allowing attackers to bypass typical security protections such as address space layout randomization and data execution prevention mechanisms. This memory corruption can be triggered through various attack vectors including malicious web pages, email attachments, or compromised websites that deliver the malicious payload. The exploitation chain typically involves a user visiting a malicious website, which then triggers a memory corruption that allows the attacker to execute shellcode in the context of the current user session. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which describes exploitation for execution through memory corruption attacks that leverage browser vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-8460 extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass complete system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities. Organizations running Internet Explorer 11 are particularly vulnerable as this browser version continues to be used in legacy environments despite Microsoft's end of support for Internet Explorer. The vulnerability can be exploited without user interaction in some cases, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users may visit malicious websites through phishing campaigns or compromised web services. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges, and move laterally within networks. The memory corruption aspect of this vulnerability makes it particularly difficult to detect through traditional network monitoring tools, as the malicious activity occurs within the browser process itself and may not generate clear network signatures. Organizations should consider this vulnerability as part of a broader attack surface that includes outdated browser versions, unpatched systems, and insufficient security monitoring. The vulnerability's impact is amplified in environments where users have administrative privileges, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-8460 should include immediate deployment of Microsoft security patches and updates, as well as comprehensive browser security hardening measures. Organizations should implement browser isolation techniques and consider migrating away from Internet Explorer 11 to more modern browsers that have better security track records and active support. Network segmentation and web filtering solutions can help prevent access to known malicious domains, while endpoint detection and response systems should be configured to monitor for unusual memory access patterns and process behavior. Security teams should also implement user education programs to reduce the risk of social engineering attacks that may deliver malicious content through phishing or drive-by downloads. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing defense-in-depth strategies that include multiple layers of protection. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent unauthorized code execution and deploy intrusion detection systems that can identify exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should include checks for outdated browser versions and unpatched systems that may be susceptible to this type of memory corruption attack.