CVE-2011-0559 in Flash Player
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Flash Player before 10.2.152.26 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (memory corruption) via crafted parameters to an unspecified ActionScript method that cause a parameter to be used as an object pointer, a different vulnerability than CVE-2011-0560, CVE-2011-0561, CVE-2011-0571, CVE-2011-0572, CVE-2011-0573, CVE-2011-0574, CVE-2011-0578, CVE-2011-0607, and CVE-2011-0608.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2025
Adobe Flash Player version 10.2.152.26 and earlier contains a critical memory corruption vulnerability that enables remote code execution through malformed ActionScript parameters. This vulnerability specifically affects an unspecified ActionScript method where crafted parameters are improperly handled as object pointers, leading to unpredictable memory access patterns that can be exploited by malicious actors. The flaw represents a classic use-after-free or double-free condition where memory addresses are manipulated through improper parameter validation, allowing attackers to overwrite critical memory segments or execute arbitrary code within the Flash Player environment. The vulnerability operates at the runtime level of the Flash Player, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through web-based attacks without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious webpage. Security researchers have classified this issue as a memory corruption vulnerability that falls under the CWE-125 vulnerability type, which encompasses out-of-bounds read conditions that can lead to memory corruption and arbitrary code execution. The attack vector leverages the ActionScript interpreter's handling of method parameters, where the improper casting or dereferencing of parameter values as object pointers creates an exploitable condition. This vulnerability is distinct from several other related issues in the same advisory, indicating a unique code path within the Flash Player's ActionScript runtime engine that requires specific parameter manipulation to trigger.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service to include complete system compromise when successfully exploited. Attackers can leverage this memory corruption flaw to execute malicious code with the privileges of the Flash Player process, potentially leading to full system compromise depending on the execution environment. The memory corruption occurs during the parameter processing phase of ActionScript method execution, making it particularly challenging to detect and prevent through traditional network-based security controls. The vulnerability can be triggered through various means including embedded Flash content in web pages, email attachments, or any mechanism that loads Flash content into the vulnerable player version. Organizations running affected Flash Player versions face significant risk as this vulnerability can be exploited through drive-by downloads, where simply visiting a compromised website can result in automatic exploitation without user interaction. The exploit development process for this vulnerability typically involves crafting malicious SWF files that contain carefully constructed parameter values designed to manipulate memory layout and execute shellcode. Security professionals should note that the vulnerability's impact is amplified by the widespread use of Flash Player across enterprise environments, making it a prime target for nation-state actors and sophisticated threat groups who leverage such flaws for advanced persistent threat campaigns.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation through patch management, as Adobe released security updates specifically addressing this issue in version 10.2.152.26. Organizations should implement network-based controls including web application firewalls and content filtering systems to block potentially malicious Flash content, though this approach provides only partial protection as the vulnerability can be exploited through multiple vectors. The implementation of sandboxing measures for Flash Player execution, combined with strict user permission controls and privilege separation, can significantly reduce the potential impact of successful exploitation. Security teams should also consider implementing behavior-based monitoring to detect anomalous Flash Player memory access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK framework includes techniques related to privilege escalation and code injection, specifically targeting the execution phase of attack chains where adversaries seek to establish persistent access through compromised Flash Player components. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all systems running affected Flash Player versions and prioritize remediation efforts based on risk exposure. Additionally, the deployment of endpoint detection and response solutions can provide visibility into exploitation attempts by monitoring for suspicious memory access patterns and unauthorized code execution within Flash Player processes. Regular security awareness training should also emphasize the risks associated with Flash content and the importance of keeping Flash Player updated, as many organizations continue to use outdated versions due to compatibility requirements or lack of awareness about the security implications.