CVE-2015-8449 in Flash Player
Summary
by MITRE
Use-after-free vulnerability in the MovieClip object implementation in Adobe Flash Player before 18.0.0.268 and 19.x and 20.x before 20.0.0.228 on Windows and OS X and before 11.2.202.554 on Linux, Adobe AIR before 20.0.0.204, Adobe AIR SDK before 20.0.0.204, and Adobe AIR SDK & Compiler before 20.0.0.204 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted lineTo method call, a different vulnerability than CVE-2015-8048, CVE-2015-8049, CVE-2015-8050, CVE-2015-8055, CVE-2015-8056, CVE-2015-8057, CVE-2015-8058, CVE-2015-8059, CVE-2015-8061, CVE-2015-8062, CVE-2015-8063, CVE-2015-8064, CVE-2015-8065, CVE-2015-8066, CVE-2015-8067, CVE-2015-8068, CVE-2015-8069, CVE-2015-8070, CVE-2015-8071, CVE-2015-8401, CVE-2015-8402, CVE-2015-8403, CVE-2015-8404, CVE-2015-8405, CVE-2015-8406, CVE-2015-8410, CVE-2015-8411, CVE-2015-8412, CVE-2015-8413, CVE-2015-8414, CVE-2015-8420, CVE-2015-8421, CVE-2015-8422, CVE-2015-8423, CVE-2015-8424, CVE-2015-8425, CVE-2015-8426, CVE-2015-8427, CVE-2015-8428, CVE-2015-8429, CVE-2015-8430, CVE-2015-8431, CVE-2015-8432, CVE-2015-8433, CVE-2015-8434, CVE-2015-8435, CVE-2015-8436, CVE-2015-8437, CVE-2015-8441, CVE-2015-8442, CVE-2015-8447, CVE-2015-8448, CVE-2015-8450, CVE-2015-8452, and CVE-2015-8454.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/09/2024
The CVE-2015-8449 vulnerability represents a critical use-after-free flaw within Adobe Flash Player's MovieClip object implementation that affects multiple versions across different operating systems. This vulnerability specifically manifests when processing a crafted lineTo method call, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through web-based attacks without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website. The flaw exists in Flash Player versions prior to 18.0.0.268 and 19.x and 20.x before 20.0.0.228 on Windows and OS X platforms, as well as before 11.2.202.554 on Linux systems. Additionally, Adobe AIR versions before 20.0.0.204 and corresponding SDK versions are also affected, indicating the vulnerability spans across Adobe's entire multimedia runtime ecosystem. The technical nature of this vulnerability places it firmly within the CWE-416 category of use-after-free conditions, where memory that has been freed is accessed, creating opportunities for arbitrary code execution. This classification aligns with the broader ATT&CK framework's technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation typically involves executing malicious code through compromised runtime environments. The vulnerability's exploitation path involves manipulating the MovieClip object's memory management through the lineTo method, which is commonly used in Flash applications for drawing operations. When the Flash Player processes a malformed lineTo call, it can trigger a situation where previously freed memory is accessed, allowing attackers to inject and execute malicious code with the privileges of the Flash Player process. This presents a severe security risk as Flash Player often runs with elevated permissions and can access system resources directly.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-8449 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise in many scenarios. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to bypass traditional security controls, as the exploitation occurs within the trusted Flash runtime environment where security boundaries are typically relaxed. The vulnerability's widespread impact across multiple Flash Player versions and platforms makes it particularly attractive to threat actors, as it allows for broad targeting of potential victims. Organizations running affected versions of Adobe Flash Player or AIR are exposed to persistent threats that can result in data theft, system takeover, and lateral movement within networks. The fact that this vulnerability is distinct from other related CVEs in the same timeframe indicates it represents a unique exploitation vector that requires specific mitigation strategies. Security researchers have noted that the vulnerability can be reliably exploited through web-based attacks, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users frequently visit untrusted websites or receive malicious email attachments containing Flash content. The vulnerability's potential for remote code execution means that successful exploitation can lead to complete compromise of affected systems, especially when combined with other attack techniques in multi-stage attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-8449 primarily focus on immediate patching and operational security measures. Organizations should prioritize updating all affected Adobe Flash Player installations to versions 18.0.0.268 or later for Windows and OS X, 20.0.0.228 or later for 20.x versions, and 11.2.202.554 or later for Linux systems. Additionally, Adobe AIR installations should be updated to version 20.0.0.204 or later, along with corresponding SDK and compiler versions. Beyond patching, network-based mitigations such as web application firewalls and content filtering solutions can help reduce exposure by blocking malicious Flash content. Security teams should also implement runtime monitoring to detect suspicious Flash Player behavior, particularly around MovieClip object manipulations and memory access patterns. The vulnerability's nature makes traditional exploit prevention techniques less effective, as it occurs within the legitimate Flash Player runtime environment. Organizations should consider implementing sandboxing measures for Flash content execution, though this may impact application functionality. Security awareness training remains crucial as users may still encounter malicious Flash content through social engineering attacks or compromised websites. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-416 and its exploitation patterns align with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, indicating that mitigation efforts should include monitoring for command execution patterns that could result from successful exploitation. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to ensure that all Flash-based applications and systems are properly secured against this and similar use-after-free vulnerabilities.