CVE-2019-1003 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability exists in the way that the Chakra scripting engine handles objects in memory in Microsoft Edge, aka 'Chakra Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability'. This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2019-0989, CVE-2019-0991, CVE-2019-0992, CVE-2019-0993, CVE-2019-1002, CVE-2019-1024, CVE-2019-1051, CVE-2019-1052.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/20/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-1003 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft Edge's Chakra scripting engine that enables remote code execution under specific conditions. This vulnerability specifically targets the manner in which the Chakra engine manages object handling in memory, creating a pathway for attackers to exploit memory corruption patterns that can be leveraged for arbitrary code execution. The issue manifests when Edge processes certain JavaScript objects, leading to unpredictable memory states that malicious actors can manipulate to gain control over the affected system. The Chakra engine serves as the core JavaScript engine for Microsoft Edge and is also utilized in various other Microsoft products, making this vulnerability particularly concerning from a security perspective.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper memory management within the Chakra scripting engine's object handling mechanisms. When Edge processes certain JavaScript constructs, particularly those involving object manipulation and memory allocation, the engine fails to properly validate memory boundaries and object references. This leads to memory corruption that can be exploited through carefully crafted malicious web content. The vulnerability operates at a low level within the browser's execution environment, where JavaScript code is compiled and executed, making it particularly challenging to detect and prevent through traditional security measures. Attackers can leverage this flaw by hosting malicious web pages that trigger the vulnerable code path, potentially allowing them to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the Edge process.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-1003 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it represents a complete compromise of the affected system's security posture. Once successfully exploited, attackers can establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and potentially move laterally within network environments. The vulnerability affects Microsoft Edge versions prior to the security updates released in the July 2019 security bulletin, making it particularly dangerous for organizations that have not yet applied the necessary patches. The memory corruption nature of this vulnerability means that exploitation can result in system crashes, data corruption, or complete system compromise, depending on the attack vector and target environment. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where Edge is the default browser and users may be exposed to malicious web content through various attack vectors including phishing campaigns, compromised websites, or drive-by downloads.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-1003 primarily focus on immediate patch deployment and operational security enhancements. Microsoft released security updates in July 2019 that address this vulnerability through modifications to the Chakra engine's memory management routines and object handling processes. Organizations should prioritize patching all affected Edge installations to prevent exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing browser hardening measures such as disabling unnecessary JavaScript features, restricting access to potentially malicious websites, and deploying web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection. Network-based mitigations including DNS filtering, web content filtering, and monitoring for suspicious network traffic patterns can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. From a compliance standpoint, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for JavaScript execution, emphasizing the need for comprehensive endpoint security measures. Organizations should also consider implementing behavioral monitoring and anomaly detection systems that can identify unusual JavaScript execution patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining current security patches and implementing defense-in-depth strategies to protect against sophisticated browser-based attacks that target core engine components.