CVE-2018-12791 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2018-12791 affecting Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions, allowing arbitrary code execution. Find mitigation steps and update recommendations.
Adobe Acrobat and Reader 2018.011.20040 and earlier, 2017.011.30080 and earlier, and 2015.006.30418 and earlier versions have a Use-after-free vulnerability that could lead to arbitrary code execution.
Understanding CVE-2018-12791
A vulnerability related to the use-after-free issue has been found in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2018.011.20040 and earlier, 2017.011.30080 and earlier, as well as 2015.006.30418 and earlier.
What is CVE-2018-12791?
The CVE-2018-12791 vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code within the privileges of the current user if successfully exploited.
The Impact of CVE-2018-12791
If exploited, this vulnerability could result in the execution of arbitrary code within the privileges of the current user, potentially leading to unauthorized access and control of the affected system.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-12791
Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2018.011.20040 and earlier, 2017.011.30080 and earlier, and 2015.006.30418 and earlier are affected by a Use-after-free vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from a use-after-free issue in the affected Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions, allowing attackers to manipulate memory and potentially execute arbitrary code.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Adobe Acrobat and Reader 2018.011.20040 and earlier
- Adobe Acrobat and Reader 2017.011.30080 and earlier
- Adobe Acrobat and Reader 2015.006.30418 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 executing arbitrary code.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take:
- Update Adobe Acrobat and Reader to the latest patched versions.
- Exercise caution when opening PDF files from untrusted or unknown sources.
Long-Term Security Practices:
- Regularly update software and applications to patch known vulnerabilities.
- Implement security awareness training to educate users on safe computing practices.
- Utilize endpoint protection solutions to detect and prevent exploitation attempts.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that Adobe Acrobat and Reader are regularly updated to the latest versions to mitigate the CVE-2018-12791 vulnerability.