CVE-2017-16375 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2017-16375 affecting Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions, allowing attackers to exploit an untrusted pointer dereference in the JavaScript API engine, potentially leading to sensitive data exposure. Find mitigation steps and preventive measures.
A vulnerability has been found in several versions of Adobe Acrobat and Reader, including 2017.012.20098 and earlier, 2017.011.30066 and earlier, 2015.006.30355 and earlier, and 11.0.22 and earlier. This vulnerability occurs when an untrusted pointer in the JavaScript API engine is accessed, potentially leading to sensitive information exposure.
Understanding CVE-2017-16375
This CVE identifies a vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions that could be exploited to expose sensitive data.
What is CVE-2017-16375?
The vulnerability arises from an untrusted pointer dereference in the JavaScript API engine, allowing attackers to manipulate JavaScript input to access memory locations outside the relevant process address space.
The Impact of CVE-2017-16375
Exploiting this vulnerability could lead to the exposure of sensitive information due to the manipulation of JavaScript input and accessing unauthorized memory locations.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-16375
This section provides technical details of the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The issue involves an untrusted pointer dereference in the JavaScript API engine, enabling attackers to access memory locations beyond the process address space.
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 can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating JavaScript input to access memory locations not intended for the process, potentially leading to data exposure.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protective measures to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2017-16375.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Adobe Acrobat and Reader to the latest patched versions.
- Exercise caution while opening PDF files from untrusted sources.
- Implement security best practices for safe browsing and file handling.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and applications to patch known vulnerabilities.
- Conduct security awareness training to educate users on safe computing practices.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates provided by Adobe to address the CVE-2017-16375 vulnerability.