CVE-2011-2120 in Shockwave Player
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in the CursorAsset x32 component in Adobe Shockwave Player before 11.6.0.626 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/13/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-2120 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within the CursorAsset x32 component of Adobe Shockwave Player versions prior to 11.6.0.626. This issue falls under the CWE-190 category of integer overflow, where an application fails to properly handle integer arithmetic operations that exceed the maximum value that can be represented by the data type, leading to unpredictable behavior. The vulnerability specifically affects the CursorAsset x32 component, which is responsible for handling cursor assets within Shockwave Player's runtime environment.
The technical exploitation of this integer overflow occurs when the CursorAsset x32 component processes malformed input data that causes integer arithmetic to wrap around or exceed the bounds of the allocated integer storage. This overflow condition can result in memory corruption that attackers can leverage to execute arbitrary code on the target system. The unspecified vectors suggest that multiple attack scenarios could potentially trigger this vulnerability, including manipulation of Shockwave content files, network-based attacks through web browsers, or malicious embedded content within web pages. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with the attack pattern described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the technique of code injection, where attackers manipulate application behavior through corrupted data processing.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple exploitation as it affects the entire Shockwave Player ecosystem and potentially impacts millions of users who rely on Shockwave content for multimedia applications. The integer overflow condition creates a memory management issue that can be exploited to overwrite critical memory locations, including return addresses or function pointers, enabling attackers to redirect program execution flow. This vulnerability is particularly concerning given that Shockwave Player was widely deployed across various platforms and applications, making it a prime target for exploitation. The attack surface includes web browsers that support Shockwave content, desktop applications that embed Shockwave functionality, and any environment where Shockwave Player components are installed.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-2120 primarily focus on immediate patching of Adobe Shockwave Player installations to version 11.6.0.626 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the integer overflow condition. System administrators should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all vulnerable systems are updated promptly. Network-based mitigations include implementing content filtering measures that block Shockwave content from untrusted sources, disabling Shockwave Player plugins in web browsers, and employing network segmentation to limit exposure. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of executing untrusted Shockwave content and the importance of keeping their software up to date. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and integer arithmetic handling in software development, particularly for components that process external data, and serves as a reminder of the critical need for regular security assessments and vulnerability management programs.