CVE-2011-2414 in Flash Player
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in Adobe Flash Player before 10.3.183.5 on Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, and Solaris and before 10.3.186.3 on Android, and Adobe AIR before 2.7.1 on Windows and Mac OS X and before 2.7.1.1961 on Android, allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via unspecified vectors, a different vulnerability than CVE-2011-2130, CVE-2011-2134, CVE-2011-2137, and CVE-2011-2415.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/17/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-2414 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within Adobe Flash Player and Adobe AIR software ecosystems. This weakness affects multiple operating systems including Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, Solaris, and Android platforms, with varying affected versions across different software distributions. The vulnerability stems from improper memory management during the processing of certain media content, creating opportunities for attackers to exploit memory corruption patterns that can lead to arbitrary code execution. The flaw specifically impacts Flash Player versions prior to 10.3.183.5 on desktop platforms and 10.3.186.3 on Android devices, while Adobe AIR is affected in versions before 2.7.1 on Windows and Mac OS X and before 2.7.1.1961 on Android platforms.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow vulnerability involves the improper handling of memory allocation when processing multimedia content within the Flash Player runtime environment. When maliciously crafted content is loaded, the software fails to properly validate input lengths, leading to memory corruption that can be exploited by attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions. The attack vector typically involves delivering malicious Flash content through web browsers or other applications that embed Flash Player components, allowing the exploit to execute within the context of the user's session. The vulnerability differs from other related issues such as CVE-2011-2130, CVE-2011-2134, CVE-2011-2137, and CVE-2011-2415, indicating it operates through distinct code paths and exploitation techniques.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-2414 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with significant privileges within the compromised system. Successful exploitation can result in full system compromise, allowing malicious actors to install malware, modify system files, access sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects a wide range of users since Flash Player was widely deployed across multiple platforms and browsers, making it an attractive target for attackers seeking broad exploitation capabilities. The attack surface includes web browsers, desktop applications, and mobile platforms, each presenting unique exploitation challenges and potential attack vectors. Security researchers noted that the vulnerability could be leveraged in phishing campaigns, drive-by download attacks, and other social engineering scenarios where users would encounter malicious Flash content through legitimate web browsing activities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-2414 require immediate patch deployment across all affected systems, with particular emphasis on updating Adobe Flash Player and Adobe AIR installations to their latest secure versions. Organizations should implement network-based protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems to block malicious Flash content at the perimeter. Browser vendors and system administrators should consider disabling Flash plugin execution entirely, as recommended by the cybersecurity community, since Flash Player was inherently insecure and prone to numerous vulnerabilities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under the T1059.007 technique for command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation typically involves executing malicious code through the Flash runtime environment. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify unpatched systems, while incident response procedures should be updated to address potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of executing untrusted Flash content remains crucial in reducing successful exploitation rates.