CVE-2017-3106 in Flash Player
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Flash Player versions 26.0.0.137 and earlier have an exploitable type confusion vulnerability when parsing SWF files. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/02/2025
Adobe Flash Player versions 26.0.0.137 and earlier contain a critical type confusion vulnerability that arises during the parsing of SWF files, representing a significant security risk for affected systems. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-479 category of Type Confusion, where the software incorrectly handles data types during runtime operations, leading to unpredictable behavior and potential exploitation. The flaw manifests when Flash Player processes malformed SWF content that triggers incorrect type assumptions within the player's memory management systems. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it exists in the core parsing logic that handles multimedia content delivery, making it accessible through standard web browsing activities.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious SWF file that manipulates the type system within Flash Player's runtime environment. During SWF parsing, the player's interpreter encounters unexpected data structures that cause it to misinterpret memory locations, leading to a situation where one data type is treated as another. This type confusion allows attackers to manipulate the execution flow of the application by overwriting critical memory areas with malicious code. The vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution flaw because attackers can deliver malicious SWF content through web browsers without requiring any local privileges or user interaction beyond visiting a compromised website. The attack vector leverages the widespread use of Flash Player across various platforms and browsers, making it an attractive target for cybercriminals seeking broad exploitation capabilities.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-3106 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over affected systems. Once successfully exploited, the vulnerability enables attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the Flash Player process, which typically runs with the same permissions as the user browsing the web. This capability allows for privilege escalation attacks, persistent backdoor installation, and data exfiltration from compromised machines. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to full system compromise, enabling attackers to install additional malware, modify system configurations, or establish command and control channels. Organizations relying on Flash Player for web content delivery face significant risk exposure, particularly in enterprise environments where Flash content is frequently used for presentations, training materials, and interactive applications.
Security professionals should implement immediate mitigation strategies including disabling Flash Player functionality in web browsers and applying the latest security patches from Adobe. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as exploitation enables attackers to execute malicious commands through the Flash runtime environment. Organizations must also deploy network monitoring solutions to detect suspicious SWF file downloads and implement web application firewalls to filter potentially malicious Flash content. The remediation process should include comprehensive vulnerability assessments of all systems running Flash Player, along with regular security audits to identify any remaining exposure vectors. Additionally, security teams should establish incident response procedures specifically addressing Flash-based exploits, given the vulnerability's potential for widespread impact and the difficulty in detecting exploitation attempts within normal network traffic patterns.