CVE-2015-5573 in Flash Player
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Flash Player before 18.0.0.241 and 19.x before 19.0.0.185 on Windows and OS X and before 11.2.202.521 on Linux, Adobe AIR before 19.0.0.190, Adobe AIR SDK before 19.0.0.190, and Adobe AIR SDK & Compiler before 19.0.0.190 allow attackers to execute arbitrary code by leveraging an unspecified "type confusion."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/18/2022
Adobe Flash Player versions prior to 18.0.0.241 and 19.x before 19.0.0.185 on Windows and OS X platforms, along with versions before 11.2.202.521 on Linux, as well as Adobe AIR versions before 19.0.0.190 and corresponding SDK versions, contained a critical type confusion vulnerability that enabled remote code execution attacks. This vulnerability stems from improper handling of object types during runtime execution, creating conditions where the application could incorrectly interpret data as different types than originally intended. The flaw represents a classic type confusion issue that falls under CWE-466, which specifically addresses the use of an incorrect type in memory operations. The vulnerability manifests when Flash Player processes malformed multimedia content or SWF files that trigger memory corruption through improper type handling during object manipulation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts malicious SWF content that causes the Flash Player runtime to perform operations on objects using incorrect type information. This type confusion allows attackers to manipulate memory layout and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the Flash Player process. The attack vector typically involves web-based delivery through malicious websites or email attachments containing crafted SWF files. When the vulnerable Flash Player processes such content, it can lead to memory corruption that enables attackers to overwrite critical memory locations, potentially leading to remote code execution. The vulnerability affects multiple platforms including Windows, OS X, and Linux, making it particularly dangerous for widespread exploitation. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which describes the use of malicious code to gain remote access through compromised applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to target systems. Once successfully exploited, attackers can establish backdoors, escalate privileges, and maintain long-term presence on compromised systems. The vulnerability's widespread impact is compounded by the ubiquity of Flash Player installations across enterprise environments, making it an attractive target for advanced persistent threats. Organizations with legacy systems that continue to rely on Flash content face heightened risk, as patching may be delayed due to compatibility concerns with existing applications. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website, making it particularly effective for mass deployment attacks. Security professionals must consider this vulnerability alongside other memory corruption flaws that can lead to privilege escalation and system compromise. The remediation process requires immediate patching of all affected versions, with particular attention to ensuring that Adobe AIR and SDK components are updated to versions that address this specific type confusion issue.