CVE-2021-40757 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

Adobe After Effects version 18.4.1 (and earlier) is affected by a memory corruption vulnerability due to insecure handling of a malicious MXF file, potentially resulting in arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user. User interaction is required in that the victim must open a specially crafted file to exploit this vulnerability.

Understanding CVE-2021-40757

Adobe After Effects MXF File Parsing Memory Corruption Arbitrary Code Execution

What is CVE-2021-40757?

Adobe After Effects version 18.4.1 (and earlier) is vulnerable to memory corruption due to insecure handling of malicious MXF files.
The vulnerability could lead to arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user.
User interaction is essential as the victim needs to open a specially crafted file to trigger the exploit.

The Impact of CVE-2021-40757

CVSS Score: 7.8 (High)
Attack Vector: Local
Attack Complexity: Low
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: Required
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High

Technical Details of CVE-2021-40757

Adobe After Effects MXF File Parsing Memory Corruption Arbitrary Code Execution

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Adobe After Effects arises from the insecure processing of MXF files, leading to memory corruption and potential code execution.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: After Effects
Vendor: Adobe
Affected Versions:
Version 18.4.1 and earlier
Custom versions with unspecified specifications

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited by convincing a user to open a specially crafted MXF file, triggering the memory corruption and enabling arbitrary code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate action and long-term security practices are crucial to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-40757.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by Adobe.
Avoid opening suspicious or unsolicited MXF files.
Educate users about phishing tactics that may lead to opening malicious files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement robust email filtering to block malicious attachments.
Regularly update and patch software to address vulnerabilities.
Conduct security training to increase awareness of potential threats.

Patching and Updates

Adobe has released security updates to address the vulnerability.
Users are advised to update their Adobe After Effects software to the latest version to mitigate the risk of exploitation.