CVE-2017-16372 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2017-16372 affecting Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions, allowing attackers to expose sensitive data through untrusted pointer dereference in the JavaScript API engine. Find mitigation steps here.
A vulnerability has been found 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, involving an untrusted pointer dereference within the JavaScript API engine.
Understanding CVE-2017-16372
This CVE identifies a specific vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader that could potentially lead to the exposure of sensitive data through a pointer dereference issue.
What is CVE-2017-16372?
The vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions mentioned allows for manipulation of JavaScript input, leading to computation results pointing to memory locations outside the appropriate process address space.
The Impact of CVE-2017-16372
Exploiting this vulnerability could result in the exposure of sensitive data due to an untrusted pointer dereference within the JavaScript API engine.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-16372
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The issue involves an untrusted pointer dereference in the JavaScript API engine, where crafted JavaScript input can produce computation results pointing to memory locations outside the relevant 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
The vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate JavaScript input to point to memory locations beyond the appropriate process address space, potentially leading to data exposure.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-16372 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Adobe Acrobat and Reader to the latest patched versions
- Implement security measures to restrict JavaScript execution in PDF files
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and apply security patches
- Educate users on safe browsing habits and potential threats
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security updates and patches provided by Adobe to mitigate the vulnerability.