External risk intelligence

ChakraCore Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2018-8298

A memory corruption vulnerability in the ChakraCore scripting engine allows for remote code execution. Organizations using this engine face risk if malicious content is processed, potentially leading to unauthorized system access and data compromise.

3Halo Surface Signal

Remote Code Execution

Microsoft Chakracore

before 1.10.1

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2018-8298

ChakraCore is a scripting engine used in web browsers and embedded applications. While it processes untrusted web content, it is typically a component within a larger application rather than an internet-facing service itself. Exposure depends on the specific host application's implementation and whether it allows users to execute arbitrary scripts from the internet.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

A memory corruption vulnerability exists within the ChakraCore scripting engine. This flaw can be triggered when the engine handles objects in memory, potentially allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code. The impact could involve unauthorized system access or manipulation within affected organizations.

  • Vulnerable scripting engine component
  • Memory handling flaw
  • Remote code execution possible

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

A vulnerability in the ChakraCore scripting engine could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code. This occurs when the engine improperly handles objects in memory, leading to a corruption. An attacker could leverage this by tricking a user into interacting with specially crafted content, which then triggers the vulnerability. This could result in an attacker gaining control over the affected system.

  • Exposure condition: Network access to ChakraCore.
  • Attacker starting point: Unauthenticated.
  • Trigger and result: Malicious content leads to code execution.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

A scripting engine memory corruption vulnerability was identified, allowing remote code execution. Attackers could exploit this by tricking users into visiting a malicious website or opening a specially crafted document, leading to the compromise of systems running the affected scripting engine. This vulnerability poses a significant risk due to its potential for widespread impact.

  • Likely attacker skill level: High
  • Required access or conditions: Network access, user interaction
  • Business risk or urgency: High

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability in the ChakraCore scripting engine could allow for remote code execution if an affected system processes malicious content. Organizations should prioritize identifying systems that utilize this engine, reducing their exposure, and applying vendor-provided fixes to mitigate the risk of compromise and protect business operations and data. This proactive approach is crucial for maintaining security posture.

  • Find affected ChakraCore assets.
  • Reduce exposure or isolate systems.
  • Apply fixes, verify, and monitor.

Frequently asked questions

What is Microsoft ChakraCore?

ChakraCore is a scripting engine developed by Microsoft. It is used to process and execute JavaScript code, commonly found in web browsers and other applications that require JavaScript functionality.

How does CVE-2018-8298 affect ChakraCore?

CVE-2018-8298 is a memory corruption vulnerability in ChakraCore. It occurs due to the way the engine handles objects in memory, which can be exploited to achieve remote code execution.

What is a Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability?

A Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability, like the one in CVE-2018-8298, is a flaw in software that processes scripts. It allows an attacker to corrupt memory, potentially leading to the execution of malicious code on the user's system.

How might an attacker exploit this vulnerability?

An attacker could exploit this by crafting malicious content, such as a specially designed webpage or document, that interacts with the vulnerable ChakraCore engine. If a user opens or views this content, the vulnerability could be triggered, leading to code execution.

What is the practical response for CVE-2018-8298?

The recommended response is to identify systems using affected versions of ChakraCore, reduce their exposure, and apply security updates provided by Microsoft. Verifying that the fixes are in place and monitoring for any suspicious activity are also crucial steps.

References