CVE-2010-2161 in Flash Player
Summary
by MITRE
Array index error in Adobe Flash Player before 9.0.277.0 and 10.x before 10.1.53.64, and Adobe AIR before 2.0.2.12610, might allow attackers to execute arbitrary code via unspecified "types of Adobe Flash code."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/15/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-2161 represents a critical array index error within Adobe Flash Player and Adobe AIR runtime environments. This flaw exists in versions prior to 9.0.277.0 for Flash Player and 10.1.53.64 for Flash Player 10.x, as well as in Adobe AIR versions before 2.0.2.12610. The vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking in the Flash Player's handling of array data structures, creating a condition where maliciously crafted Flash content can exploit memory access violations. The unspecified "types of Adobe Flash code" referenced in the description indicate that attackers can leverage various code patterns to trigger this memory corruption issue, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous due to its broad exploitation potential.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a classic buffer overflow condition where an attacker can manipulate array indexing operations to access memory locations beyond the allocated array boundaries. This type of flaw maps directly to CWE-129, which describes improper validation of array indices, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations. When exploited, the vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the Flash Player process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack vector typically involves delivering malicious Flash content through web browsers or other applications that embed the Flash Player runtime, making it particularly effective in phishing campaigns and drive-by download attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-2161 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a pathway to establish persistent access to vulnerable systems. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to privilege escalation, data theft, and the installation of additional malware. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Windows Command Shell execution and T1078 for valid accounts usage, as attackers can leverage the executed code to maintain access and move laterally within networks. The widespread deployment of Flash Player across enterprise environments made this vulnerability particularly dangerous, as it could affect numerous systems simultaneously and often required immediate patching to mitigate risk.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-2161 primarily focus on immediate remediation through software updates and patch management. Organizations should prioritize updating all affected versions of Adobe Flash Player and Adobe AIR to their patched releases, with the specific versions mentioned in the CVE description serving as minimum requirements for protection. Network-level defenses should include web application firewalls and content filtering solutions that can detect and block malicious Flash content. Additionally, implementing Adobe's recommended security practices such as disabling Flash Player in web browsers, using sandboxing technologies, and monitoring for unusual Flash-related network activity provides layered protection. Security teams should also consider implementing endpoint detection and response solutions to identify potential exploitation attempts and maintain audit trails of Flash Player usage within their environments.