CVE-2017-11249 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Adobe Acrobat Reader versions 2017.009.20058 and earlier, 2017.008.30051 and earlier, 2015.006.30306 and earlier, and 11.0.20 and earlier are affected by a memory corruption vulnerability in the image conversion engine.

Understanding CVE-2017-11249

A vulnerability related to memory corruption has been discovered in Adobe Acrobat Reader versions 2017.009.20058 and earlier, 2017.008.30051 and earlier, 2015.006.30306 and earlier, and 11.0.20 and earlier.

What is CVE-2017-11249?

The vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat Reader allows for arbitrary code execution by exploiting an issue within the image conversion engine when parsing an invalid Enhanced Metafile Format (EMF) record.

The Impact of CVE-2017-11249

If successfully exploited, this vulnerability may lead to the execution of arbitrary code, posing a significant security risk to affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-11249

Adobe Acrobat Reader is susceptible to a memory corruption vulnerability in the image conversion engine.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from parsing an invalid Enhanced Metafile Format (EMF) record, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code.

Affected Systems and Versions

Adobe Acrobat Reader 2017.009.20058 and earlier
Adobe Acrobat Reader 2017.008.30051 and earlier
Adobe Acrobat Reader 2015.006.30306 and earlier
Adobe Acrobat Reader 11.0.20 and earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by manipulating an invalid EMF record, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected system.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2017-11249.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Adobe Acrobat Reader to the latest version to patch the vulnerability.
Exercise caution when opening files from untrusted sources.
Implement security best practices to mitigate the risk of arbitrary code execution.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to ensure the latest security patches are in place.
Conduct security training for users to recognize and avoid potential threats.

Patching and Updates

Adobe has released patches to address the vulnerability in affected versions of Acrobat Reader. Ensure that all systems are updated with the latest security fixes.