CVE-2019-7970 in Photoshop CC
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Photoshop CC versions 19.1.8 and earlier and 20.0.5 and earlier have a type confusion vulnerability. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/06/2020
Adobe Photoshop contains a type confusion vulnerability that arises from improper handling of object types during memory operations. This flaw exists in versions 19.1.8 and earlier as well as 20.0.5 and earlier of the software. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly validate data types when processing certain image files, creating opportunities for malicious actors to manipulate memory structures through crafted input files. The root cause aligns with CWE-843, which specifically addresses type confusion vulnerabilities where an attacker can cause a program to execute code with unintended data types. This vulnerability operates at the intersection of memory management and input validation, making it particularly dangerous in creative software environments where users frequently process external media files.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when Photoshop processes specially crafted image files that trigger incorrect type assumptions during object handling. Attackers can construct malicious files that appear legitimate to the application but contain data structures designed to confuse the type system. When the application attempts to access or manipulate these objects, it may execute code from unexpected memory locations. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple code execution to potentially allow privilege escalation and system compromise, as the application typically runs with user-level privileges. This type of vulnerability is classified under the ATT&CK framework as T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, where the arbitrary code execution can be leveraged to establish persistent access or deploy additional malicious payloads.
The operational impact of this vulnerability affects organizations that rely heavily on Photoshop for creative workflows, particularly those processing external media from untrusted sources. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability through social engineering campaigns targeting creative professionals, phishing emails containing malicious image files, or by compromising supply chain sources. The vulnerability's presence in widely used software versions means that numerous endpoints across different industries remain at risk. Organizations using Photoshop in professional environments face significant exposure, as the software's extensive use in graphic design, photo editing, and digital media production creates multiple attack vectors. The vulnerability can be exploited through various file formats that Photoshop supports, making it challenging to implement comprehensive defensive measures without disrupting legitimate workflows.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of affected software versions, as Adobe has released security updates addressing the issue. Organizations should implement strict file validation policies, particularly for external media processing, and consider sandboxing Photoshop executions to limit potential damage. Network-based controls such as email filtering and web proxies can help prevent the delivery of malicious files to user workstations. Regular security awareness training should emphasize the risks of processing untrusted media files and the importance of keeping software updated. System administrators should monitor for unusual process behaviors and implement endpoint detection and response solutions to identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's remediation aligns with industry best practices for vulnerability management and requires coordinated patch deployment across all affected systems to ensure comprehensive protection against this type confusion threat.