CVE-2019-0593 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability exists in the way that the scripting engine handles objects in memory in Microsoft Edge, aka 'Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability'. This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2019-0590, CVE-2019-0591, CVE-2019-0605, CVE-2019-0607, CVE-2019-0610, CVE-2019-0640, CVE-2019-0642, CVE-2019-0644, CVE-2019-0651, CVE-2019-0652, CVE-2019-0655.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/09/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-0593 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft Edge's scripting engine that enables remote code execution under specific conditions. This vulnerability specifically affects the handling of objects in memory during script execution, creating a pathway for attackers to manipulate the browser's memory management mechanisms. The scripting engine in Microsoft Edge is responsible for interpreting and executing javascript and other scripting languages, making it a prime target for exploitation. The flaw manifests when the engine processes certain object references and memory operations, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution on the victim's system. Security researchers have classified this as a memory corruption vulnerability because it allows attackers to overwrite memory locations and execute malicious code with the privileges of the compromised browser process.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the scripting engine's improper handling of memory objects during runtime execution. When Edge processes certain javascript constructs or object manipulations, the memory management routines fail to properly validate or sanitize object references, leading to potential buffer overflows or memory corruption conditions. This flaw falls under the CWE-125 vulnerability category, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds read conditions, and can be mapped to the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for script-based execution. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through web-based attacks without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website. Attackers can craft specially designed web pages that, when loaded in Microsoft Edge, cause the scripting engine to corrupt memory and subsequently execute malicious payloads.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-0593 extends beyond simple browser compromise, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system takeover. Since the vulnerability exists within the browser's core scripting engine, attackers can leverage it to bypass security controls such as sandboxing mechanisms that normally isolate browser processes from the underlying operating system. This makes the vulnerability particularly attractive to threat actors seeking persistent access to target systems. The remote code execution capability allows attackers to install additional malware, establish command and control channels, or perform data exfiltration directly from the compromised system. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the widespread use of Microsoft Edge, making it an attractive target for mass exploitation campaigns.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including applying the relevant Microsoft security updates and patches released in the May 2019 security bulletin. Browser hardening measures such as enabling enhanced protections, disabling unnecessary scripting features, and implementing strict content security policies can help reduce the attack surface. Network-level protections including web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems should be configured to monitor for exploitation attempts. Security teams should also implement monitoring for suspicious memory access patterns and anomalous browser behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw necessitates comprehensive incident response planning and network segmentation to limit potential lateral movement. Additionally, user education regarding safe browsing practices and the dangers of visiting untrusted websites remains critical in defending against this type of attack vector.