CVE-2017-3120 : What You Need to Know

Adobe Acrobat Reader versions 2017.009.20058 and earlier, 2017.008.30051 and earlier, 2015.006.30306 and earlier, and 11.0.20 and earlier are affected by a use after free vulnerability in the XFA parsing engine. This vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code.

Understanding CVE-2017-3120

Adobe Acrobat Reader versions 2017.009.20058 and earlier, 2017.008.30051 and earlier, 2015.006.30306 and earlier, and 11.0.20 and earlier are susceptible to a critical security flaw.

What is CVE-2017-3120?

This CVE identifies a vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat Reader that could be exploited by freeing certain internal instructions in the XFA parsing engine, potentially leading to the execution of arbitrary code.

The Impact of CVE-2017-3120

If successfully exploited, this vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code on the affected system, posing a significant security risk.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-3120

Adobe Acrobat Reader is affected by a use after free vulnerability in the XFA parsing engine.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the mishandling of internal instructions in the XFA parsing engine, potentially leading to the execution of arbitrary code.

Affected Systems and Versions

Adobe Acrobat Reader 2017.009.20058 and earlier
Adobe Acrobat Reader 2017.008.30051 and earlier
Adobe Acrobat Reader 2015.006.30306 and earlier
Adobe Acrobat Reader 11.0.20 and earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by freeing specific internal instructions in the XFA parsing engine, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2017-3120.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Adobe Acrobat Reader to the latest version to patch the vulnerability.
Monitor official security advisories from Adobe for any further instructions.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to ensure the latest security patches are in place.
Implement robust security measures such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems.

Patching and Updates

Apply security updates and patches provided by Adobe promptly to address the vulnerability and enhance system security.