CVE-2021-36075 in Adobe
Summary
by MITRE • 09/01/2021
Adobe Bridge version 11.1 (and earlier) is affected by a Buffer Overflow vulnerability due to insecure handling of a malicious Bridge file, potentially resulting in arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user. User interaction is required to exploit this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/04/2021
Adobe Bridge version 11.1 and earlier contains a critical buffer overflow vulnerability that stems from improper input validation when processing maliciously crafted bridge files. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 buffer overflow category, where insufficient bounds checking allows an attacker to write beyond the allocated memory buffer. The flaw occurs during the file parsing process when Bridge fails to properly validate the size and structure of incoming bridge files, creating an exploitable condition that can be triggered through crafted malicious inputs.
The security implications of this vulnerability are severe as it enables remote code execution when a user opens a specially crafted bridge file. This represents a classic user interaction required exploit scenario where the attacker must convince the victim to open the malicious file, typically through social engineering tactics such as email attachments or compromised websites. The vulnerability operates at the user level, meaning successful exploitation would allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the current user account, potentially leading to full system compromise if the user has elevated permissions.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for organizations that rely on Adobe Bridge for creative workflows and asset management. The attack surface is broad as Bridge is commonly used in creative industries where users frequently handle files from external sources, making the attack vector highly realistic. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple code execution to include potential data exfiltration, system persistence mechanisms, and privilege escalation opportunities. Security teams must consider the likelihood of successful exploitation given that user interaction is required, though the widespread use of Adobe Bridge increases the potential attack surface.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including restricting user access to potentially malicious files, deploying application whitelisting solutions, and ensuring Adobe Bridge is updated to versions that address this vulnerability. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a technique involving exploitation of a software vulnerability, specifically targeting the execution of malicious code through file-based attacks. Regular patch management processes become critical in addressing this vulnerability, as Adobe has released updates to resolve the buffer overflow condition. Additionally, user education programs should emphasize the dangers of opening unknown or untrusted bridge files, as social engineering remains a primary attack vector for this type of vulnerability.