CVE-2017-3035 : What You Need to Know

Adobe Acrobat Reader versions 11.0.19 and earlier, 15.006.30280 and earlier, 15.023.20070 and earlier have a use after free vulnerability in the XML Forms Architecture (XFA) engine, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution.

Understanding CVE-2017-3035

This CVE involves a critical vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat Reader that could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems.

What is CVE-2017-3035?

A use after free vulnerability exists in the XFA engine of Adobe Acrobat Reader versions 11.0.19 and earlier, 15.006.30280 and earlier, 15.023.20070 and earlier. Exploiting this flaw could result in the execution of arbitrary code.

The Impact of CVE-2017-3035

If successfully exploited, this vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code on the targeted system, potentially leading to a complete compromise of the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-3035

This section provides more in-depth technical details about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is a use after free issue in the XFA engine of Adobe Acrobat Reader, which could be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary code on the affected system.

Affected Systems and Versions

Adobe Acrobat Reader 11.0.19 and earlier
Adobe Acrobat Reader 15.006.30280 and earlier
Adobe Acrobat Reader 15.023.20070 and earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious PDF file and convincing a user to open it, triggering the use after free condition and potentially executing arbitrary code.

Mitigation and Prevention

To protect systems from CVE-2017-3035, immediate actions and long-term security practices are essential.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Adobe Acrobat Reader to the latest version available from the official Adobe website.
Exercise caution when opening PDF files from untrusted or unknown sources.
Consider using alternative PDF readers until the vulnerability is patched.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement security awareness training to educate users about the risks associated with opening files from unknown sources.

Patching and Updates

Adobe has released security updates to address this vulnerability. It is crucial to apply these patches promptly to mitigate the risk of exploitation.