CVE-2016-4284 in Flash Player
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Flash Player before 18.0.0.375 and 19.x through 23.x before 23.0.0.162 on Windows and OS X and before 11.2.202.635 on Linux allows attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (memory corruption) via unspecified vectors, a different vulnerability than CVE-2016-4274, CVE-2016-4275, CVE-2016-4276, CVE-2016-4280, CVE-2016-4281, CVE-2016-4282, CVE-2016-4283, CVE-2016-4285, CVE-2016-6922, and CVE-2016-6924.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/16/2022
Adobe Flash Player versions prior to 18.0.0.375 on Windows and OS X, and versions 19.x through 23.x before 23.0.0.162 on the same platforms, along with versions before 11.2.202.635 on Linux, contained a critical memory corruption vulnerability that enabled remote code execution attacks. This vulnerability represents a distinct issue from several other CVEs published in the same advisory cycle, specifically excluding CVE-2016-4274 through CVE-2016-4285, CVE-2016-6922, and CVE-2016-6924. The flaw manifested through unspecified attack vectors that could be exploited by malicious actors to gain arbitrary code execution privileges on vulnerable systems, or alternatively cause denial of service conditions through memory corruption. The vulnerability operates at the core memory management level of the Flash Player runtime environment, where improper handling of certain data structures or memory allocation patterns creates opportunities for attackers to manipulate the execution flow of the application. From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations, both of which are common attack surfaces in memory corruption vulnerabilities. The attack vector typically involves crafting malicious Flash content that, when executed by the vulnerable Flash Player, triggers the memory corruption flaw. This allows attackers to execute arbitrary code within the context of the Flash Player process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The operational impact extends beyond simple code execution as the memory corruption can also result in denial of service conditions that may persist until system reboot. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability would map to T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically within the Flash Player environment, and T1203 for exploitation for privilege escalation. The attack surface is particularly concerning given Flash Player's widespread deployment across enterprise environments and end-user systems, making it an attractive target for threat actors seeking persistent access. Organizations running affected versions should immediately implement patch management protocols to upgrade to patched versions of Flash Player, as the vulnerability remains exploitable in unpatched environments. Security teams should also consider implementing network segmentation and content filtering measures to prevent execution of potentially malicious Flash content. The vulnerability demonstrates the ongoing risks associated with legacy software components and highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches for all runtime environments including multimedia players and browser plugins. This particular vulnerability underscores the need for comprehensive vulnerability management programs that address not only known exploits but also the underlying architectural weaknesses in software components that remain in widespread use. The memory corruption nature of the flaw makes it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged for privilege escalation attacks and persistent backdoor installation, representing a significant threat to enterprise network security.