CVE-2017-3061 in Flash Player
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Flash Player versions 25.0.0.127 and earlier have an exploitable memory corruption vulnerability in the SWF parser. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/27/2025
Adobe Flash Player versions 25.0.0.127 and earlier contain a critical memory corruption vulnerability within the SWF file parser component that presents a significant security risk to affected systems. This vulnerability resides in the parsing logic responsible for processing Shockwave Flash files, which are widely used multimedia formats for web content delivery. The flaw manifests as an improper handling of certain data structures during the parsing process, creating conditions where memory can be overwritten or accessed in unintended ways. The vulnerability has been classified under CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions where data is written beyond the boundaries of allocated memory regions. This specific implementation issue affects the SWF parser's ability to properly validate and process malformed or specially crafted SWF file content, allowing attackers to manipulate memory layout and execute arbitrary code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise when exploited successfully. Attackers can leverage this memory corruption flaw by delivering malicious SWF files through various attack vectors including compromised websites, email attachments, or malicious advertisements. Once executed, the vulnerability allows threat actors to gain unauthorized access to affected systems, potentially enabling them to install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors. The exploitability of this vulnerability is enhanced by the widespread deployment of Adobe Flash Player across enterprise environments and consumer systems, making it an attractive target for cybercriminals seeking mass impact. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers the use of scripting languages for execution, as the exploited memory corruption enables arbitrary code execution through Flash-based attacks. Additionally, the vulnerability can be classified under ATT&CK technique T1203, representing the exploitation of software vulnerabilities for privilege escalation or system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-3061 require immediate action to address the underlying memory corruption issue through proper patching procedures. Organizations should prioritize updating all affected Adobe Flash Player installations to versions that contain the necessary security fixes, as Adobe has released patches to remediate this vulnerability. The recommended approach involves implementing comprehensive patch management processes that ensure all systems receive the latest security updates from Adobe. Network administrators should consider implementing additional protective measures such as disabling Flash Player in web browsers where possible, as well as deploying web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious SWF file content. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual patterns of Flash Player usage or attempts to execute suspicious code, particularly in enterprise environments where Flash Player remains active. The vulnerability's classification as a heap-based buffer overflow makes it particularly susceptible to exploitation through controlled memory manipulation techniques, emphasizing the need for robust input validation and memory safety practices. Organizations should also consider implementing sandboxing mechanisms and privilege separation to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify any remaining instances of outdated Flash Player installations that may still pose risks to the organization's security posture.