CVE-2019-16445 : What You Need to Know

Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2019.021.20056 and earlier, 2017.011.30152 and earlier, 2017.011.30155 and earlier version, 2017.011.30152 and earlier, and 2015.006.30505 and earlier have an use after free vulnerability. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution.

Understanding CVE-2019-16445

An use after free vulnerability has been discovered in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2019.021.20056 and earlier, 2017.011.30152 and earlier, 2017.011.30155 and earlier version, 2017.011.30152 and earlier, and 2015.006.30505 and earlier. If this vulnerability is successfully exploited, it could result in arbitrary code execution.

What is CVE-2019-16445?

CVE-2019-16445 is a use after free vulnerability found in Adobe Acrobat and Reader software versions, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code.

The Impact of CVE-2019-16445

If exploited, this vulnerability could lead to arbitrary code execution, posing a significant security risk to systems running the affected Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-16445

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions allows for an use after free scenario, which can be leveraged by attackers to execute arbitrary code.

Affected Systems and Versions

Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2019.021.20056 and earlier
Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2017.011.30152 and earlier
Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2017.011.30155 and earlier
Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2017.011.30152 and earlier
Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2015.006.30505 and earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by malicious actors to trigger the use after free condition, potentially leading to the execution of arbitrary code on the affected systems.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Adobe Acrobat and Reader to the latest patched versions
Consider implementing security measures to detect and prevent exploitation attempts targeting this vulnerability

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches promptly
Educate users on safe computing practices and awareness of potential threats

Patching and Updates

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