CVE-2018-8653
Published: November 3, 2021
Official Description
Microsoft Internet Explorer contains a memory corruption vulnerability due to how the Scripting Engine handles objects in memory, leading to remote code execution.
CISA KEV Advisory
Microsoft Internet Explorer Scripting Engine Memory Corruption Vulnerability
Microsoft Internet Explorer contains a memory corruption vulnerability due to how the Scripting Engine handles objects in memory, leading to remote code execution.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Risk Analysis
Microsoft Internet Explorer contains a memory corruption vulnerability in the Scripting Engine that can lead to remote code execution. The high EPSS score and confirmed exploitation by CISA highlight the urgency of addressing this vulnerability. This flaw is rated as HIGH severity.
This vulnerability is actively being exploited in the wild. It is remotely exploitable, typically through malicious web content.
Users of Microsoft Internet Explorer should update to the latest available version or migrate to a modern, supported browser. Ensure all security updates are applied to mitigate memory corruption vulnerabilities.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2018-8653 requires local access, meaning attackers must already have a foothold on the target system.
Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
CISA has added CVE-2018-8653 to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, confirming active exploitation in the wild. U.S. federal agencies are required to patch this within the mandated timeframe, and all organizations should treat remediation as urgent.
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
All References (1)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2018-8653 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts
- !CISA KEV: Federal agencies must patch per BOD 22-01 timeline
- !Active exploitation confirmed — treat as P1