CVE-2019-7979 in Photoshop CC
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Photoshop CC versions 19.1.8 and earlier and 20.0.5 and earlier have an out of bound write 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 critical out-of-bounds write vulnerability that affects multiple version ranges including CC versions 19.1.8 and earlier, as well as 20.0.5 and earlier releases. This vulnerability stems from insufficient bounds checking within the application's handling of specific image file formats, particularly those involving layered compositions or complex metadata structures. The flaw manifests when Photoshop processes malformed input files that trigger memory allocation patterns exceeding the intended buffer boundaries, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate memory layout and execute malicious code. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-787 as an out-of-bounds write condition, which represents a fundamental memory safety issue that has been a persistent concern in image processing applications due to the complex nature of raster graphics manipulation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to craft a specially designed image file that triggers the memory corruption during the parsing process. When Photoshop attempts to write data beyond the allocated memory buffer, it can overwrite adjacent memory regions including function pointers, return addresses, or other critical control structures. This memory corruption enables attackers to redirect execution flow and potentially achieve arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the Photoshop process. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users may unknowingly open maliciously crafted files, as the attack surface extends beyond simple file viewing to include automated processing scenarios such as batch operations or web-based image previews. The exploitability of this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 by leveraging application vulnerabilities to gain execution privileges, and T1059 through the potential for command execution within the compromised system.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-7979 extends beyond immediate code execution capabilities to encompass broader security implications for creative professionals and organizations relying on Adobe Photoshop for image processing workflows. Creative agencies, graphic design firms, and media production companies face significant risk as their employees frequently handle external image files from various sources, including client submissions, stock photography, and social media content. The vulnerability's presence in both major release lines indicates a persistent flaw in the application's input validation mechanisms that could be exploited in targeted attacks against high-value targets within creative industries. Organizations may experience unauthorized access to sensitive design assets, potential data exfiltration, or establishment of persistent backdoors through successful exploitation. The complexity of image file formats and the extensive parsing logic required for Photoshop's functionality creates multiple potential entry points for attackers to craft effective payloads, making this vulnerability particularly challenging to defend against.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize immediate patching of affected Adobe Photoshop installations to the latest available versions that contain the necessary memory safety fixes. Organizations should implement strict file validation policies that include sandboxed processing environments for untrusted image files, limiting the potential impact of exploitation attempts. Network-based defenses such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems can help prevent malicious file delivery through email attachments or web-based image sharing platforms. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual file processing patterns or memory access violations that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, user education regarding safe file handling practices and the importance of only opening image files from trusted sources remains crucial in reducing attack surface. System administrators should consider implementing application whitelisting controls to restrict execution of unauthorized Photoshop versions and ensure that all endpoints maintain current security patches. The vulnerability's classification as a memory corruption issue underscores the importance of deploying modern exploit mitigation technologies such as address space layout randomization, data execution prevention, and stack canaries to reduce the likelihood of successful exploitation even if patches are not immediately deployed.