CVE-2017-16387 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

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. The issue is related to a buffer over-read in the JPEG2000 codec, allowing exposure of sensitive data.

Understanding CVE-2017-16387

This CVE identifies a security flaw in Adobe Acrobat and Reader that could lead to data exposure if exploited.

What is CVE-2017-16387?

The vulnerability arises from a calculation error that reads data beyond the intended buffer boundary, specifically within the JPEG2000 codec. An invalid pointer offset while accessing internal data structure fields triggers this issue.

The Impact of CVE-2017-16387

If successfully exploited, this vulnerability can result in the exposure of sensitive data stored within the affected Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-16387

This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability 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 is due to a buffer over-read within the JPEG2000 codec.

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 is exploited by manipulating the calculation that reads data beyond the buffer boundary, specifically within the JPEG2000 codec.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-16387 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 prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches promptly.
Conduct security audits to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all systems running Adobe Acrobat and Reader are updated with the latest security patches to mitigate the risk of exploitation.