CVE-2022-30637: Exploring the Out-of-Bounds Write Vulnerability in Adobe Illustrator and How to Prevent Arbitrary Code Execution

Adobe Illustrator, the popular and widely used vector graphics editor, has been discovered to have an out-of-bounds write vulnerability in its versions 26..2 (and earlier) and 25.4.5 (and earlier). CVE-2022-30637 is the code assigned to this vulnerability, and its successful exploitation could result in arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user. For an attacker to exploit this issue, however, user interaction is required, which means that a victim must open a malicious file. In this article, we will discuss the details of this vulnerability, how it can be exploited, and provide resources and precautions to help protect your system.

Code Snippet

The code snippet below demonstrates an example of how the out-of-bounds write vulnerability may be triggered:

#include <stdlib.h>
#include <string.h>
#include <stdio.h>

void out_of_bounds_write(int *array, int target_index, int value) {
  int buffer[5];

  array[target_index] = value; // Potential out-of-bounds write
}

int main() {
  int my_array[10];
  out_of_bounds_write(my_array, 15, 42); // The target_index (15) is out-of-bounds of my_array

  return ;
}

The code above shows a simple C program that defines a vulnerable out_of_bounds_write function, which could perform an out-of-bounds write if given an incorrect target index. While the buffer is allocated on the stack (a static memory location), it could easily be changed to dynamically allocated memory, which would resemble a real-world, heap-based vulnerability.

Exploit Details

As mentioned earlier, exploiting the CVE-2022-30637 vulnerability requires user interaction. An attacker would craft a malicious Adobe Illustrator file, containing specially crafted data designed to cause the out-of-bounds write during processing. When an unsuspecting user opens the malicious file with affected versions of Adobe Illustrator, the vulnerability could be triggered, causing arbitrary code execution and potentially allowing the attacker to take control of the user's system.

Original References

For specific details about the vulnerability, stakeholders can review the security bulletin provided by Adobe (https://helpx.adobe.com/security/products/illustrator/apsb22-11.html) and the NIST National Vulnerability Database (CVE-2022-30637 entry: https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2022-30637 ).

Precautionary Measures

Users should consider the following steps to protect themselves from the CVE-2022-30637 vulnerability and its potential consequences:

1. Update Adobe Illustrator: Ensure that you are using the latest, patched version of Adobe Illustrator. Adobe has released updates for both affected versions, and users should promptly update their software to prevent being exploited.

For version 25.4.5 and earlier, update to version 25.4.6

2. Avoid Opening Suspicious Files: Be cautious when opening files from unknown sources or unsolicited emails. Verify the authenticity of a file before opening it, and consider using virus scanning software to check for potential threats.

3. Stay Informed: Regularly check for security updates and advisories from Adobe and other software vendors. Staying informed about potential security threats will help you take action promptly.

Conclusion

CVE-2022-30637 is a severe vulnerability that requires Adobe Illustrator users to pay close attention. Affected users should act immediately to protect their systems by applying timely security updates and remaining vigilant when opening files from unknown sources. By understanding the potential risks and taking appropriate action, users can better safeguard themselves from malicious exploitation.

Timeline

Published on: 09/07/2023 14:15:00 UTC