CVE-2020-24429 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Acrobat Reader DC for macOS Signature Verification Bypass Could Lead to Privilege Escalation

Understanding CVE-2020-24429

Acrobat Reader DC for macOS is affected by a signature verification bypass vulnerability that could potentially lead to local privilege escalation.

What is CVE-2020-24429?

Acrobat Reader DC versions 2020.012.20048 and earlier, 2020.001.30005 and earlier, and 2017.011.30175 and earlier for macOS are impacted by a signature verification bypass vulnerability. Exploiting this issue requires user interaction, where a victim must open a malicious file.

The Impact of CVE-2020-24429

CVSS Base Score: 7.7 (High)
Severity: High
Attack Complexity: High
Attack Vector: Local
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: Required
Scope: Changed
CWE ID: CWE-347 (Improper Verification of Cryptographic Signature)

Technical Details of CVE-2020-24429

Acrobat Reader DC for macOS is susceptible to a signature verification bypass vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows for a signature verification bypass, potentially leading to local privilege escalation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Adobe Acrobat Reader DC versions 2020.012.20048 and earlier
Adobe Acrobat Reader DC versions 2020.001.30005 and earlier
Adobe Acrobat Reader DC versions 2017.011.30175 and earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit this vulnerability, a user must open a malicious file, triggering the signature verification bypass.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2020-24429.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Acrobat Reader DC to the latest version.
Avoid opening files from untrusted or unknown sources.
Exercise caution while interacting with files or links from suspicious emails.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement security awareness training to educate users on identifying and avoiding potential threats.

Patching and Updates

Adobe has released security updates to address this vulnerability. Ensure that your Acrobat Reader DC is updated to the patched version.