CVE-2024-38218: Exploiting Microsoft Edge (HTML-based) Memory Corruption Vulnerability for Arbitrary Code Execution
The world of cybercrime and security is ever-dynamic, with new vulnerabilities being discovered and reported every day. One such critical memory corruption vulnerability has been identified in Microsoft Edge web browser, which is officially indexed as CVE-2024-38218. This vulnerability, if successfully exploited, can lead to potential arbitrary code execution on the victim's system, thereby giving attackers unprecedented access to sensitive information and enabling them to perform malicious operations. In this post, we will delve into the details of this vulnerability, share relevant code snippets, and links to the original security advisory, along with the step-by-step process of attempting the exploit.
Vulnerability Analysis
CVE-2024-38218 refers to a memory corruption vulnerability in the HTML-based engine of Microsoft Edge web browser. The flaw results from improper handling of certain specially crafted web content, which may lead to memory corruption and, subsequently, arbitrary code execution. This enables an attacker to run malicious code remotely and take control of the victim's system.
The official CVE record can be found here: CVE Record
Affected Components
This vulnerability affects Microsoft Edge web browsers that are HTML-based versions (prior to Chromium-based versions). It is essential to update your browser to the most recent version to mitigate this risk.
Exploit Details
Victims can be targeted through a malicious website where the attacker has injected a specially crafted HTML code. This code, when rendered on the vulnerable browser, triggers the memory corruption. An attacker requires user interaction, luring the victim to visit the malicious website or send it through a hyperlinked email, for the exploit to be successful.
Here's the sample code snippet to understand the basis of this vulnerability
<!-- Proof of Concept (PoC) - Microsoft Edge Memory Corruption Vulnerability -->
<html>
<body>
<script>
function exploit() {
// Triggering the memory corruption
...
}
</script>
<button onClick="exploit()">Click to start exploit</button>
</body>
</html>
When a naive user clicks on the button, the function exploit() would trigger the memory corruption and execute the arbitrary code. In a real-life scenario, the injected arbitrary code could be tied to a remote payload, giving the attacker complete control over the victim's system.
Mitigation Strategies
Microsoft has already acknowledged and released a patch for this vulnerability. To mitigate this risk, it is essential to keep your web browser up-to-date, including the latest security patches. To update your Microsoft Edge browser, follow these steps:
Moving Forward
It is of paramount importance not just for users but also for developers to understand the impact of vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-38218. These vulnerabilities can have severe consequences, resulting in financial losses, reputational damage, or sensitive data leaks for individuals and organizations alike. Vulnerability research is a continuous process, with new threats emerging daily. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and ensure that your systems are always up-to-date to keep adversaries at bay.
Timeline
Published on: 08/12/2024 13:38:23 UTC
Last modified on: 08/24/2024 00:06:52 UTC