CVE-2016-7881 in Flash Player
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Flash Player versions 23.0.0.207 and earlier, 11.2.202.644 and earlier have an exploitable use after free vulnerability in the MovieClip class when handling conversion to an object. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/08/2022
Adobe Flash Player contains a critical use after free vulnerability in the MovieClip class that arises during object conversion operations. This flaw exists in versions 23.0.0.207 and earlier, as well as 11.2.202.644 and earlier, making it a widespread issue affecting multiple Flash Player releases. The vulnerability stems from improper memory management where freed memory locations are accessed after being deallocated, creating a predictable exploitation vector for attackers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the MovieClip class when processing object conversion operations. When Flash Player handles the conversion of MovieClip objects to other data types, it fails to properly validate memory references before accessing previously freed memory segments. This use after free condition allows attackers to manipulate the memory layout and potentially execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the Flash Player process. The flaw operates at the runtime level where object lifecycle management is inadequate, creating opportunities for memory corruption that can be leveraged for code execution.
This vulnerability presents significant operational impact as Flash Player remains widely deployed across enterprise environments and consumer systems. The exploitability of this use after free condition means that attackers can craft malicious SWF files that, when loaded by vulnerable Flash Player versions, will trigger the memory corruption. Successful exploitation results in arbitrary code execution, potentially allowing attackers to bypass system security controls, escalate privileges, or establish persistent access to affected systems. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond individual user sessions as Flash Player is commonly used in web browsers, making it a prime target for drive-by attack scenarios.
Organizations should prioritize immediate patching of all affected Flash Player installations to mitigate this vulnerability. The recommended mitigation strategy involves upgrading to patched versions of Adobe Flash Player that address the memory management issues within the MovieClip class. Security teams should also implement network-based controls such as web application firewalls and content filtering solutions to block malicious SWF content. Additionally, disabling Flash Player execution in browsers and implementing strict browser security policies can reduce the attack surface. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-416, which specifically addresses use after free conditions, and represents a common vector for exploitation within the ATT&CK framework's execution and privilege escalation phases. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper memory management in runtime environments and the need for comprehensive security testing of object lifecycle management in multimedia frameworks.