CVE-2017-16400 : What You Need to Know

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. This vulnerability arises from a calculation that accesses data beyond the intended limits of the designated buffer. The calculation is part of the JPEG 2000 parser. By utilizing an invalid pointer offset while accessing internal data structure fields, the vulnerability can be triggered. Exploiting this vulnerability successfully can result in the exposure of sensitive data.

Understanding CVE-2017-16400

This CVE identifies a vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions that could lead to sensitive data exposure.

What is CVE-2017-16400?

CVE-2017-16400 is a vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions that allows attackers to access sensitive data by exploiting a calculation error in the JPEG 2000 parser.

The Impact of CVE-2017-16400

The successful exploitation of this vulnerability can result in the exposure of sensitive data stored within the affected Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-16400

This section provides technical details regarding the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions occurs due to a calculation error that accesses data beyond the intended buffer limits, specifically in the JPEG 2000 parser. By using an invalid pointer offset to access internal data structure fields, attackers can trigger the vulnerability.

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

Attackers exploit this vulnerability by utilizing an invalid pointer offset to access internal data structure fields, triggering the vulnerability and potentially exposing sensitive data.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-16400 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 access to vulnerable systems.
Monitor for any unusual activities that could indicate exploitation attempts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches promptly.
Conduct security training for users to recognize and report suspicious activities.
Implement network segmentation to contain potential breaches.

Patching and Updates

Adobe has released patches to address the vulnerability in affected versions. Ensure all systems are updated with the latest security patches to mitigate the risk of exploitation.