CVE-2020-9688 in Download Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Download Manager version 2.0.0.518 have a command injection vulnerability. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/04/2020
Adobe Download Manager version 2.0.0.518 contains a command injection vulnerability that represents a critical security risk to affected systems. This vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-77, which specifically addresses command injection flaws in software applications. The flaw exists in how the application processes user-supplied input during download operations, where insufficient input validation allows attackers to inject malicious commands that execute within the context of the application's privileges. The vulnerability stems from improper sanitization of parameters passed to system commands, creating an environment where attacker-controlled input can be interpreted and executed as legitimate system instructions.
The operational impact of this command injection vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential system compromise and data exfiltration. When exploited, the vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the target system with the privileges of the Adobe Download Manager process. This could enable attackers to install malware, modify system configurations, access sensitive data, or establish persistence mechanisms within the compromised environment. The attack surface is particularly concerning as Adobe Download Manager typically runs with elevated privileges on Windows systems, potentially providing attackers with elevated access to the underlying operating system. According to ATT&CK framework technique T1059.001, adversaries can leverage command and scripting interpreters to execute malicious code, making this vulnerability a prime target for exploitation.
Successful exploitation of CVE-2020-9688 requires an attacker to craft malicious input that gets processed by the download manager's command execution mechanisms. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the system level, allowing for complete compromise of the affected system. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to perform reconnaissance activities, establish backdoors, or pivot to other systems within the network. The lack of proper input validation and sanitization creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited repeatedly, making it a high-priority target for security teams. Organizations running this specific version of Adobe Download Manager should immediately implement mitigations to prevent exploitation and reduce the risk of unauthorized system access. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper command execution handling in preventing privilege escalation attacks that can lead to complete system compromise.