CVE-2017-16411 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-16411, a 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, potentially exposing sensitive data. Find mitigation steps and prevention measures here.
A vulnerability has been discovered 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, allowing potential exposure of sensitive data.
Understanding CVE-2017-16411
This CVE identifies a vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader that could lead to data exposure due to a calculation error.
What is CVE-2017-16411?
The vulnerability arises from a calculation error in the WebCapture module, specifically related to an internal hash table implementation. It occurs when an invalid pointer offset is used to access internal data structure fields, potentially exposing sensitive data.
The Impact of CVE-2017-16411
Exploiting this vulnerability could result in the exposure of sensitive data stored within Adobe Acrobat and Reader, posing a risk to user privacy and confidentiality.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-16411
This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability stems from a calculation error that reads data beyond the intended buffer limit, allowing unauthorized access to internal data structures.
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 using an invalid pointer offset to access internal data structure fields, potentially leading to the exposure of sensitive data.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2017-16411, follow these mitigation strategies:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Adobe Acrobat and Reader to the latest version
- Implement security best practices to protect sensitive data
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and security patches
- Conduct security audits to identify and address vulnerabilities
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates to mitigate the risk of exploitation.