A Vulnerability in Adobe Flash Player Could Allow for Arbitrary Code Execution (APSB18-16)
MS-ISAC ADVISORY NUMBER:
2018-052
DATE(S) ISSUED:
05/08/2018
OVERVIEW:
A vulnerability has been discovered in Adobe Flash Player, which could allow for arbitrary code execution. Adobe Flash Player is a widely distributed multimedia and application player used to enhance the user experience when visiting web pages or reading email messages. Successful exploitation of this vulnerability could allow for arbitrary code execution in the context of the user running the application. Depending on the privileges associated with the user, an attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full user rights. Users whose accounts are configured to have fewer user rights on the system could be less impacted than those who operate with administrative user rights.
THREAT INTELLIGENCE:
There are currently no reports of this vulnerability being exploited in the wild.
SYSTEMS AFFECTED:
- Adobe Flash Player Desktop Runtime versions 29.0.0.140 and earlier for Windows, Macintosh, and Linux
- Adobe Flash Player for Google Chrome versions 29.0.0.140 and earlier for Windows, Macintosh, Linux, and Chrome OS
- Adobe Flash Player for Microsoft Edge and Internet Explorer 11 versions 29.0.0.140 and earlier for Windows 10 and 8.1
RISK:
Government:
- Large and medium government entities: HIGH
- Small government entities: MEDIUM
Businesses:
- Large and medium business entities: HIGH
- Small business entities: MEDIUM
Home Users:
LOW
TECHNICAL SUMMARY:
A vulnerability has been discovered in Adobe Flash Player, which could allow for arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability occurs due to a type confusion error. Successful exploitation of this vulnerability could allow for arbitrary code execution in the context of the user running the application. Depending on the privileges associated with the user, an attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full user rights. Users whose accounts are configured to have fewer user rights on the system could be less impacted than those who operate with administrative user rights.
RECOMENDATIONS:
We recommend the following actions be taken:
- Apply the appropriate patch provided by Adobe to vulnerable systems immediately after appropriate testing.
- Run all software as a non-privileged user (one without administrative privileges) to diminish the effects of a successful attack.
- Remind users not to visit un-trusted websites or follow links provided by unknown or un-trusted sources.
- Inform and educate users regarding the threats posed by hypertext links contained in emails or attachments especially from un-trusted sources.
- Apply the Principle of Least Privilege to all systems and services.