CVE-2023-38243 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides detailed information about CVE-2023-38243, a Use-After-Free vulnerability affecting Adobe Acrobat Reader versions.

Understanding CVE-2023-38243

CVE-2023-38243 is a vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat Reader that could lead to the disclosure of sensitive memory, affecting versions 23.003.20244 and earlier, as well as versions 20.005.30467 and earlier.

What is CVE-2023-38243?

Adobe Acrobat Reader versions 23.003.20244 and earlier, and 20.005.30467 and earlier, are vulnerable to a Use-After-Free vulnerability that could allow an attacker to disclose sensitive memory. This vulnerability may enable an attacker to bypass mitigations such as ASLR, requiring user interaction by opening a malicious file.

The Impact of CVE-2023-38243

The vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat Reader can have a significant impact on confidentiality, potentially leading to the exposure of sensitive information. Exploitation of this vulnerability could compromise the security of affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-38243

This section provides a deeper insight into the technical aspects of the CVE-2023-38243 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

CVE-2023-38243 is classified as a Use-After-Free vulnerability (CWE-416) in Adobe Acrobat Reader, allowing an attacker to disclose sensitive memory, potentially bypassing security mitigations.

Affected Systems and Versions

Adobe Acrobat Reader versions 23.003.20244 and earlier, as well as versions 20.005.30467 and earlier, are confirmed to be affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploitation of CVE-2023-38243 requires user interaction, where a victim must open a malicious file to trigger the Use-After-Free vulnerability, potentially leading to the disclosure of sensitive information.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-38243, immediate actions and long-term security practices are essential.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update Adobe Acrobat Reader to the latest version as soon as patches are made available. Avoid opening files from untrusted or unknown sources to minimize the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing robust security measures, such as regular software updates, security training for users, and maintaining awareness of potential threats, can enhance the overall security posture.

Patching and Updates

Adobe has released a security advisory addressing CVE-2023-38243. Users should refer to the official advisory from Adobe for detailed information on patches and updates to mitigate the vulnerability.