CVE-2021-45059 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Adobe InDesign version 16.4 (and earlier) is affected by a use-after-free vulnerability in the processing of a JPEG2000 file, leading to memory disclosure. This article provides an overview of the vulnerability, its impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.

Understanding CVE-2021-45059

Adobe InDesign JPEG2000 Parsing Use-After-Free Information Disclosure Vulnerability

What is CVE-2021-45059?

Adobe InDesign version 16.4 and prior versions are susceptible to a use-after-free flaw. This vulnerability occurs during JPEG2000 file processing and could result in the exposure of critical memory contents. Exploiting this issue may enable an attacker to circumvent certain mitigations like ASLR, requiring user interaction to execute malicious files.

The Impact of CVE-2021-45059

The vulnerability's CVSS base score is 3.3, indicating a low-severity risk. Its impact includes:

Low confidentiality impact
No integrity impact
No availability impact
Local attack vector
User interaction is essential for exploitation

Technical Details of CVE-2021-45059

This section delves into specific details of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The use-after-free vulnerability in Adobe InDesign allows attackers to disclose sensitive memory by exploiting JPEG2000 file processing.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: InDesign
Vendor: Adobe
Affected Versions: 16.4 and earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker needs to entice a victim into opening a malicious file, triggering the use-after-free issue.

Mitigation and Prevention

Guidelines to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-45059.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Adobe InDesign to the latest version
Avoid opening files from untrusted sources
Implement security awareness training

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and security patches
Monitor security mailing lists for updates and advisories

Patching and Updates

Adobe has released a security advisory addressing this vulnerability, providing necessary patches and updates.