CVE-2017-16413 : Security Advisory and Response

A vulnerability has been identified in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2017.012.20098 and earlier, 2017.011.30066 and earlier, 2015.006.30355 and earlier, and 11.0.22 and earlier, allowing potential data corruption or unauthorized code execution.

Understanding CVE-2017-16413

What is CVE-2017-16413?

The vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions allows attackers to overwrite data beyond the intended buffer during XPS to PDF conversion, particularly when processing TIFF files.

The Impact of CVE-2017-16413

Exploiting this flaw could lead to the corruption of sensitive data or the execution of unauthorized code.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-16413

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from a calculation error that results in overwriting data beyond the intended buffer during XPS to PDF conversion, specifically when processing TIFF files.

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

The vulnerability stems from utilizing a pointer offset that exceeds the allowed range to access sub-elements within an internal data structure.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Adobe Acrobat and Reader to the latest patched versions
Exercise caution when opening PDF files from untrusted sources

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches
Implement network segmentation and access controls

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security updates provided by Adobe to address the vulnerability.