CVE-2019-1106 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-2019-1062, CVE-2019-1092, CVE-2019-1103, CVE-2019-1107.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/18/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-1106 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Microsoft Edge's Chakra scripting engine that enables remote code execution. This vulnerability specifically affects how the Chakra engine manages object memory allocation and handling during script execution processes. The flaw manifests when the engine improperly processes certain object references in memory, creating conditions that allow attackers to manipulate memory contents and potentially execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it exists within a core component of Microsoft Edge that handles JavaScript and other scripting languages, making it a prime target for exploitation in web-based attacks. Security researchers have noted that this issue differs from related vulnerabilities such as CVE-2019-1062, CVE-2019-1092, CVE-2019-1103, and CVE-2019-1107, indicating distinct technical characteristics in the memory handling mechanisms that make this particular flaw unique.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper memory management within the Chakra engine's object handling routines. When processing specific JavaScript objects, the engine fails to properly validate memory boundaries and object references, leading to potential buffer overflows or memory corruption scenarios. This memory corruption can be exploited through carefully crafted malicious web content that triggers the vulnerable code path during script execution. Attackers can leverage this flaw by delivering malicious JavaScript code through compromised websites or email attachments that, when executed in Microsoft Edge, causes the vulnerable memory handling routines to corrupt system memory. The exploitation typically involves creating specific object states that, when processed by the Chakra engine, result in predictable memory corruption patterns that can be leveraged for code execution.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-1106 extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass potential system compromise and data breaches. Since Microsoft Edge is widely used as the default browser on Windows systems, successful exploitation could provide attackers with full system access, enabling them to install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers can exploit it without requiring local system access, making it particularly dangerous in targeted attack scenarios. Organizations running affected versions of Microsoft Edge face significant risk of unauthorized access, especially in environments where users regularly browse the internet or receive email with web-based content. The vulnerability affects various Windows versions including Windows 10, Windows Server 2016, and Windows Server 2019, making it a widespread concern across enterprise environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-1106 should prioritize immediate patch deployment through Microsoft's security updates, as the vulnerability has been addressed in subsequent Microsoft Edge releases. Organizations should also implement network-level protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems that can detect and block malicious JavaScript content. Browser hardening measures including disabling unnecessary scripting capabilities and implementing strict content security policies can reduce the attack surface. Security teams should monitor for exploitation attempts through network traffic analysis and endpoint detection systems that can identify suspicious memory access patterns. Additionally, user education regarding safe browsing practices and the dangers of visiting untrusted websites remains crucial. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and maps to ATT&CK techniques involving exploitation of browser vulnerabilities and execution of malicious code through web-based attack vectors. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to verify that mitigations are properly implemented and effective against this and similar vulnerabilities.