CVE-2017-3075 in Flash Player
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Flash Player versions 25.0.0.171 and earlier have an exploitable use after free vulnerability when manipulating the ActionsScript 2 XML class. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/17/2019
Adobe Flash Player versions 25.0.0.171 and earlier contain a critical use after free vulnerability within the ActionScript 2 XML class implementation that represents a significant security risk for affected systems. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-416 category, which specifically addresses use after free conditions where memory is accessed after it has been freed, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate program execution flow. The flaw exists in the way Flash Player handles memory management during XML object processing, particularly when dealing with complex XML structures and their associated ActionScript 2 methods. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious Flash content that triggers the use after free condition when manipulating XML data structures, allowing them to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the Flash Player process.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires careful manipulation of ActionScript 2 XML class methods to force memory deallocation followed by subsequent access to freed memory regions. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be leveraged through web browsers that have Flash Player installed, making it an attractive target for remote code execution attacks. The attack surface is broad since Flash Player was widely deployed across various platforms and browsers, and the vulnerability could be triggered through malicious web pages or embedded Flash content. According to ATT&CK framework, this represents a technique categorized under T1059.007 for Windows Scripting and T1203 for Exploitation for Client Execution, where attackers leverage client-side vulnerabilities to gain system access.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-3075 extends beyond simple code execution, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and persistence mechanisms. Attackers can use this vulnerability to install backdoors, steal sensitive information, or establish command and control channels without user interaction. The vulnerability's exploitation typically occurs through drive-by download scenarios where users visit compromised websites containing malicious Flash content. Organizations running affected Flash Player versions face significant risk, especially those with legacy systems that cannot be immediately updated. The vulnerability demonstrates the inherent dangers of complex scripting engines and memory management in multimedia frameworks, where improper handling of object lifecycle can create persistent security weaknesses. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability was patched in later versions of Flash Player, but many organizations continued to use outdated versions long after the patch was available, creating extended attack windows.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve immediate patching of Flash Player installations to versions that address the use after free condition in the XML class handling. Organizations should implement strict browser security policies that disable Flash content by default and remove Flash Player from systems where it is not absolutely required. Network-based defenses can include web application firewalls that detect and block malicious Flash content, while endpoint protection solutions should monitor for suspicious memory access patterns. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date software inventory and implementing automated patch management systems to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities. Security teams should conduct regular vulnerability assessments to identify legacy Flash content in web applications and ensure proper decommissioning of Flash-based systems. Additionally, user education regarding the dangers of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of keeping software updated remains crucial in defending against this type of client-side exploitation.