CVE-2017-3003 in Flash Player
Summary
by MITRE • 01/25/2023
Adobe Flash Player versions 24.0.0.221 and earlier have an exploitable use after free vulnerability related to an interaction between the privacy user interface and the ActionScript 2 Camera object. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/25/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-3003 represents a critical use after free flaw within Adobe Flash Player affecting versions 24.0.0.221 and earlier. This vulnerability emerges from a complex interaction between the browser's privacy user interface and the ActionScript 2 Camera object implementation, creating a dangerous condition where memory previously freed by the application becomes accessible for reuse. The flaw manifests when the Flash Player processes camera access requests while simultaneously managing privacy controls, leading to a scenario where malicious code can manipulate freed memory locations.
This particular vulnerability falls under the CWE-416 category of Use After Free, which is classified as a fundamental memory safety issue in software development. The interaction between the privacy UI and Camera object creates a race condition where the application's memory management becomes inconsistent, allowing attackers to control memory contents through carefully crafted ActionScript code. The flaw specifically exploits the timing window between when memory is released and when it is subsequently allocated for new purposes, enabling attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the Flash Player process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a complete foothold for further exploitation within the victim's system. When successfully exploited, the vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code in the context of the currently logged-on user, potentially leading to full system compromise. This represents a significant threat vector for phishing attacks, drive-by downloads, and targeted attacks against organizations, as the vulnerability can be triggered through malicious Flash content delivered via web browsers or email attachments. The attack surface is particularly concerning given Flash Player's widespread deployment across various operating systems and browsers, making it an attractive target for cybercriminals seeking persistent access.
Security professionals should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability, beginning with immediate patching of affected Adobe Flash Player installations to versions 25.0.0.126 or later. Organizations must also consider disabling Flash Player entirely in their environments, as the platform has been deprecated by Adobe and continues to present significant security risks. Network-based mitigations can include implementing web application firewalls to block Flash content and employing content filtering solutions that can detect and prevent access to known malicious Flash content. Additionally, endpoint protection solutions should be configured to monitor for suspicious memory access patterns and process behavior that may indicate exploitation attempts. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under the T1059.007 technique for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" and T1078.004 for "Valid Accounts: Default Accounts" as attackers may use the executed code to establish persistence or escalate privileges. System administrators should also monitor for unusual network connections or file modifications that might indicate post-exploitation activities and implement regular security assessments to identify any remaining vulnerable systems within their infrastructure.