CVE-2006-5856 in Download Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the Adobe Download Manager before 2.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long section name in the dm.ini file, which is populated via an AOM file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/15/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-5856 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow within Adobe Download Manager versions prior to 2.2. This flaw resides in the processing of configuration files that are populated through AOM (Adobe Online Manager) files, creating a remote code execution vector that could be exploited by malicious actors without requiring local system access. The vulnerability specifically targets the dm.ini file parsing mechanism where section names are handled, allowing attackers to craft malicious AOM files that trigger the buffer overflow condition.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the Adobe Download Manager's configuration file parser. When the application processes an AOM file containing a section name that exceeds the allocated buffer size on the stack, it overwrites adjacent memory locations, potentially allowing an attacker to inject and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the running process. This type of flaw maps directly to CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a critical weakness in software security architecture. The vulnerability demonstrates poor memory management practices where fixed-size buffers are used without proper bounds checking mechanisms to validate input lengths before copying data into memory.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a remote attack surface that can be leveraged for complete system compromise. Since the vulnerability operates through the AOM file delivery mechanism, attackers can potentially distribute malicious files through legitimate Adobe update channels or other means of file distribution, making exploitation more likely and easier to achieve. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation does not require physical access to the target system, and the vulnerability affects multiple platforms where Adobe Download Manager is deployed. This attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1195.002 for the use of malicious files and T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter usage in the execution phase.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patch deployment to Adobe Download Manager versions 2.2 and later, which contain the necessary fixes for input validation and buffer management. Organizations should also implement network-based controls such as firewall rules that restrict access to Adobe update servers and AOM file distribution points. Additionally, security monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious AOM file patterns or unexpected dm.ini file modifications. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of input validation and proper memory management in software development, particularly for applications that process external configuration files. System administrators should also consider implementing least privilege principles for Adobe Download Manager processes and monitoring for unusual process behavior that might indicate successful exploitation attempts.