CVE-2022-35705 in Adobe
Summary
by MITRE • 09/19/2022
Adobe Bridge version 12.0.2 (and earlier) and 11.1.3 (and earlier) are affected by an out-of-bounds read vulnerability when parsing a crafted file, which could result in a read past the end of an allocated memory structure. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current user. Exploitation of this issue requires user interaction in that a victim must open a malicious file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/18/2022
Adobe Bridge versions 12.0.2 and earlier, as well as version 11.1.3 and earlier, contain a critical out-of-bounds read vulnerability designated as CVE-2022-35705 that stems from insufficient input validation during file parsing operations. This vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-125, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds read conditions where an application attempts to access memory beyond the boundaries of a allocated buffer. The flaw manifests when the software processes a maliciously crafted file that contains malformed data structures, causing the parsing routine to read memory locations that extend beyond the intended buffer boundaries. The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application's failure to properly validate array indices or buffer limits before accessing memory segments, creating a scenario where arbitrary memory content can be read and potentially exploited.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it provides a pathway for remote code execution within the context of the currently logged-in user. This represents a significant security risk because exploitation requires only user interaction through the opening of a malicious file, making it particularly dangerous in phishing campaigns or social engineering attacks. Attackers can craft specially formatted files that trigger the out-of-bounds read condition when Adobe Bridge attempts to parse them, potentially allowing for arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected user. The vulnerability's exploitation chain typically begins with a user opening a crafted file, which then triggers the memory access violation that can be leveraged to execute malicious payloads. This attack vector aligns with the MITRE ATT&CK framework's technique T1059 for command and scripting interpreter, where adversaries may use compromised applications to execute malicious code.
The security implications of this vulnerability are particularly severe given Adobe Bridge's role as a creative asset management tool that users frequently interact with during professional workflows. The out-of-bounds read condition can be exploited to gain unauthorized access to system resources, potentially leading to privilege escalation or data exfiltration. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability affects not just individual user systems but could compromise entire creative workflows when attackers successfully deliver malicious files through legitimate channels. Organizations should prioritize patch management for this vulnerability, as the window of opportunity for exploitation exists during the normal user interaction with file processing. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw makes it particularly attractive to threat actors who may incorporate it into broader attack campaigns targeting creative professionals and media organizations. Mitigation strategies should include immediate patch deployment, user education regarding suspicious file attachments, and network monitoring for potential exploitation attempts involving Adobe Bridge applications.