CVE-2021-21010 in InCopy
Summary
by MITRE • 01/14/2021
InCopy version 15.1.1 (and earlier) for Windows is affected by an uncontrolled search path vulnerability that could result in arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user. Exploitation of this issue requires user interaction in that a victim must open a malicious file.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-21010 affects Adobe InCopy version 15.1.1 and earlier installations on Windows operating systems, representing a critical uncontrolled search path weakness that enables arbitrary code execution. This flaw resides within the application's file handling mechanisms where the software fails to properly validate or sanitize the search paths used when processing files, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by malicious actors. The vulnerability specifically impacts the Windows version of InCopy, which is part of Adobe's Creative Suite designed for professional content creation and editing workflows. The security issue manifests when the application attempts to locate and load supporting files or resources, inadvertently traversing directories in an uncontrolled manner that can be manipulated by attackers.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires a user interaction component where a victim must open a maliciously crafted file that triggers the flawed search path behavior. This user interaction requirement aligns with the principle that successful exploitation typically demands social engineering or phishing campaigns to deliver the malicious payload to target systems. The uncontrolled search path vulnerability falls under CWE-427, which specifically addresses uncontrolled search path elements, and is also related to CWE-428, which deals with unquoted search paths or hardcoded search paths. The flaw allows an attacker to place malicious code in directories that InCopy will automatically search, potentially causing the system to execute unintended code with the privileges of the current user context. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through various attack vectors including email attachments, malicious documents, or compromised websites that trick users into opening the crafted files.
The operational impact of CVE-2021-21010 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a foothold for further compromise within the target environment. Once the initial payload executes, attackers can potentially escalate privileges, establish persistence mechanisms, or use the compromised system as a launch point for additional attacks against other network resources. The vulnerability affects users who regularly handle documents and files within the InCopy application, making it particularly concerning for creative agencies, publishing houses, and organizations that rely heavily on Adobe Creative Suite applications. The attack surface is significant given that InCopy is commonly used in professional environments where users frequently open documents from various sources, increasing the likelihood of successful exploitation through social engineering campaigns.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to the latest version of InCopy where the vulnerability has been patched, applying Adobe's security bulletins and patches as soon as they become available, and implementing user education programs to prevent accidental opening of malicious files. Network security controls such as email filtering, web proxies, and endpoint protection solutions should be configured to detect and block suspicious file types and behaviors associated with this vulnerability. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under the T1059.001 technique for command and script interpreter, as the execution of arbitrary code would involve launching command-line processes or scripts through the compromised application. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of unauthorized binaries and maintain regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar uncontrolled search path issues within their software ecosystems. System administrators should monitor for unusual file access patterns and ensure that the principle of least privilege is enforced to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts.