CVE-2017-16402 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A vulnerability has been identified in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2017.012.20098 and earlier, 2017.011.30066 and earlier, 2015.006.30355 and earlier, as well as 11.0.22 and earlier. This vulnerability arises when computing data that extends beyond the intended buffer limit, specifically within the JPEG 2000 module. The usage of an invalid pointer offset, exceeding the acceptable range, while accessing internal data structure fields, results in this vulnerability. If exploited successfully, it could result in the exposure of sensitive data.

Understanding CVE-2017-16402

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

What is CVE-2017-16402?

CVE-2017-16402 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions, allowing attackers to access sensitive data by exploiting a buffer limit issue in the JPEG 2000 module.

The Impact of CVE-2017-16402

The exploitation of this vulnerability could potentially lead to the exposure of sensitive data stored within the affected Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-16402

This section provides technical details of the CVE-2017-16402 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability occurs due to a computation that reads data beyond the target buffer in the JPEG 2000 module, using an invalid pointer offset, leading to sensitive data exposure.

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 data to extend beyond the buffer limit, specifically within the JPEG 2000 module, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2017-16402 with the following measures:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Adobe Acrobat and Reader to the latest patched versions.
Implement security best practices to mitigate the risk of data exposure.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor security advisories from Adobe and apply patches promptly.
Conduct security training to educate users on safe computing practices.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security updates and patches provided by Adobe to address the CVE-2017-16402 vulnerability.