CVE-2021-39818 : Security Advisory and Response

Adobe InCopy version 11.1 (and earlier) is impacted by a memory corruption vulnerability that could allow arbitrary code execution. This article provides details on the vulnerability, its impact, technical aspects, and mitigation measures.

Understanding CVE-2021-39818

Adobe InCopy is affected by a memory corruption vulnerability due to insecure handling of a malicious TIFF file, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user. User interaction is necessary to exploit this vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-39818?

Vulnerability Type: Memory Corruption
CVE ID: CVE-2021-39818
CVSS Base Score: 7.8 (High Severity)
Attack Vector: Local
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: Required
CVSS Vector String: CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H

The Impact of CVE-2021-39818

The vulnerability can have the following impacts:

High Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability Impact
Arbitrary Code Execution

Technical Details of CVE-2021-39818

Adobe InCopy's memory corruption vulnerability is described in detail below:

Vulnerability Description

Insecure handling of a malicious TIFF file
Allows arbitrary code execution

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: Adobe InCopy
Vendor: Adobe
Affected Versions:
InCopy <= 16.3
InCopy <= 16.3.1
InCopy <= None

Exploitation Mechanism

User interaction is required to exploit the vulnerability

Mitigation and Prevention

It is essential to take immediate steps and follow long-term security practices to mitigate the impact of this vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Adobe InCopy to the latest version
Avoid opening untrusted TIFF files
Implement software restrictions for InCopy

Long-Term Security Practices

Educate users on safe browsing habits
Regularly update and patch software

Patching and Updates

Adobe has released security updates to address this vulnerability