CVE-2023-28301 in Edge
Summary
by MITRE • 04/12/2023
Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based) Tampering Vulnerability
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/01/2025
This vulnerability represents a tampering issue within Microsoft Edge browser that operates on the Chromium engine architecture. The flaw allows malicious actors to potentially manipulate browser components or processes during runtime operations, creating opportunities for unauthorized modifications to the browser's functionality or security controls. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation mechanisms that should prevent unauthorized alterations to browser processes or memory segments. Attackers could exploit this weakness to inject malicious code or modify existing browser behavior without proper authorization, potentially compromising user data and system integrity. The issue particularly affects the browser's ability to maintain secure runtime environments where normal operational procedures are expected to remain intact.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves weaknesses in the browser's process isolation mechanisms and memory management controls. Specifically, the Chromium-based Edge browser fails to adequately validate or monitor certain runtime operations that could allow attackers to manipulate browser processes or components. This tampering capability extends to potential modifications of browser extensions, plugin behavior, or core rendering engine components. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-284 Access Control, indicating insufficient access control mechanisms that permit unauthorized modifications to system components. Attackers could leverage this weakness to modify browser behavior, inject malicious scripts, or alter security policies that should normally be protected from runtime modifications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple browser manipulation to encompass potential data compromise and extended attack surface exploitation. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to bypass security controls that normally protect browser processes from unauthorized access or modification. This tampering capability could enable persistent threats that maintain access to the browser environment while remaining undetected by standard security monitoring systems. The vulnerability affects users who rely on Edge for sensitive operations, potentially exposing credentials, personal data, or corporate information to unauthorized access. The attack vector typically involves either exploiting a compromised extension, leveraging a malicious website, or using a specially crafted payload that targets the browser's process management or memory handling mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patch application from Microsoft as part of their regular security update cycle. Organizations should implement comprehensive browser hardening procedures that include disabling unnecessary extensions, restricting browser access to sensitive system components, and monitoring for unusual browser behavior or process modifications. Network security controls should include deep packet inspection to detect potential exploitation attempts targeting browser processes. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1548 Abuse of Functionality, indicating that attackers could use this weakness to execute malicious code or abuse legitimate browser functionality. Additional defensive measures include implementing application whitelisting policies, deploying browser security extensions, and conducting regular security assessments to identify unauthorized modifications to browser configurations or processes. Users should maintain awareness of suspicious browser behavior and report any unusual performance issues or unexpected modifications to browser interfaces.