CVE-2017-16364 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A vulnerability has been identified in multiple versions of Adobe Acrobat and Reader, leading to an untrusted pointer dereference issue that can expose sensitive data.

Understanding CVE-2017-16364

What is CVE-2017-16364?

This CVE pertains to a vulnerability in various versions of Adobe Acrobat and Reader, where an untrusted pointer dereference occurs during the handling of number format dictionary entries, potentially exposing sensitive data.

The Impact of CVE-2017-16364

Exploiting this vulnerability can result in the exposure of sensitive data due to the manipulation of input that leads to pointers referencing memory locations outside the appropriate process address space.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-16364

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from an untrusted pointer dereference when handling entries in the number format dictionary, allowing attackers to access sensitive data.

Affected Systems and Versions

Adobe Acrobat Reader 2017.012.20098 and earlier versions
Adobe Acrobat Reader 2017.011.30066 and earlier versions
Adobe Acrobat Reader 2015.006.30355 and earlier versions
Adobe Acrobat Reader 11.0.22 and earlier versions

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers manipulate input to produce pointers referring to memory locations outside the process address space
The dereferencing operation is a read operation, leading to potential exposure of sensitive data

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Adobe Acrobat and Reader to the latest patched versions
Implement security best practices for document handling and software usage

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches promptly
Educate users on safe document handling practices to mitigate risks

Patching and Updates

Adobe has released patches to address this vulnerability
Ensure all systems running affected versions are updated with the latest security patches