CVE-2010-4308 in Shockwave Player
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Shockwave Player before 11.6.1.629 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (memory corruption) via unspecified vectors, a different vulnerability than CVE-2010-4309.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/17/2021
Adobe Shockwave Player version 11.6.1.629 and earlier contains a memory corruption vulnerability that enables remote code execution or denial of service attacks through unspecified attack vectors. This vulnerability represents a distinct security flaw from CVE-2010-4309, indicating separate code paths or memory handling mechanisms within the Shockwave Player runtime environment. The vulnerability arises from improper memory management during the processing of Shockwave content, specifically when handling malformed or maliciously crafted Shockwave files that contain crafted data structures or memory references. Attackers can exploit this weakness by delivering specially crafted Shockwave content through web browsers or desktop applications that utilize the Shockwave Player plugin, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the victim's user account.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with common memory corruption patterns classified under CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations. These weaknesses typically occur when applications fail to properly validate memory boundaries during data processing, allowing attackers to overwrite critical memory locations or execute code in unintended memory regions. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that Shockwave Player was widely distributed and integrated into various web browsers and desktop environments, making it a prime target for exploitation. The vulnerability's classification under the broader ATT&CK framework falls under T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1203 for exploitation for client execution, as attackers leverage the Shockwave Player plugin to execute malicious payloads.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple exploitation capabilities to include significant security implications for enterprise environments and individual users. Organizations relying on Shockwave content for multimedia presentations, training materials, or legacy applications face increased risk of compromise when systems contain vulnerable Shockwave Player installations. The memory corruption nature of the flaw means that successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise, especially when combined with other vulnerabilities or when users with elevated privileges execute malicious Shockwave content. The vulnerability's potential for denial of service attacks adds another layer of risk, as attackers could disrupt critical business operations by causing Shockwave Player processes to crash or become unresponsive, leading to service interruptions and potential data loss. Additionally, the lack of specific vector details in the CVE description suggests that multiple attack paths may exist, making comprehensive protection more challenging.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate patching of Shockwave Player installations to version 11.6.1.629 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes for this memory corruption vulnerability. System administrators should implement network-level controls to block access to known malicious Shockwave content and consider disabling Shockwave Player plugins in web browsers where possible. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all systems running vulnerable versions of Shockwave Player and establish monitoring procedures for suspicious network activity related to Shockwave content delivery. The implementation of application whitelisting policies and enhanced user awareness training regarding the risks of executing unknown Shockwave content can provide additional defense layers. Furthermore, security teams should monitor threat intelligence feeds for any reported exploits targeting this specific vulnerability and maintain updated incident response procedures for potential exploitation attempts. The remediation process should include verification of patch installation through automated scanning tools and regular security audits to ensure complete remediation across all affected systems and user environments.