CVE-2021-40779 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Adobe Media Encoder version 15.4.1 (and earlier) is affected by a memory corruption vulnerability due to insecure handling of a malicious file, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. User interaction is required to exploit this vulnerability.

Understanding CVE-2021-40779

Adobe Media Encoder WAV file memory corruption vulnerability could lead to arbitrary code execution.

What is CVE-2021-40779?

CVE ID: CVE-2021-40779
Vendor: Adobe
Affected Product: Media Encoder
Vulnerability Type: Memory Corruption
CVSS Base Score: 7.8 (High Severity)
Attack Vector: Local
User Interaction: Required
CWE ID: CWE-788 (Access of Memory Location After End of Buffer)

The Impact of CVE-2021-40779

The vulnerability could lead to arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user due to memory corruption in Adobe Media Encoder version 15.4.1 and earlier.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-40779

Adobe Media Encoder version 15.4.1 is affected by a memory corruption vulnerability, with the following details:

Vulnerability Description

Insecure handling of a malicious file
Potential arbitrary code execution

Affected Systems and Versions

Adobe Media Encoder versions:

Less than or equal to 15.4.1
None specified

Exploitation Mechanism

User interaction required to exploit the vulnerability

Mitigation and Prevention

It is important to take immediate steps to mitigate the impact of CVE-2021-40779.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Adobe Media Encoder to a non-vulnerable version
Refrain from opening untrusted WAV files
Be cautious while interacting with unfamiliar media files

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and security patches
Educate users on safe file handling practices

Patching and Updates

Adobe released a security advisory APSB21-99 for Adobe Media Encoder
Apply the necessary patches and updates to secure the system