CVE-2019-7018 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2019-7018, a critical use after free vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2019.010.20069 and earlier. Find out how to mitigate the risk and prevent arbitrary code execution.
Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2019.010.20069 and earlier have a use after free vulnerability that could lead to arbitrary code execution.
Understanding CVE-2019-7018
This CVE involves a critical vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader that could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code.
What is CVE-2019-7018?
CVE-2019-7018 is a use after free vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2019.010.20069 and earlier. Exploiting this flaw could result in the execution of arbitrary code.
The Impact of CVE-2019-7018
If successfully exploited, this vulnerability could allow malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected systems, potentially leading to further compromise and data breaches.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-7018
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The use after free vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2019.010.20069 and earlier allows attackers to manipulate memory and potentially execute arbitrary code.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Adobe Acrobat and Reader
- Vendor: Adobe
- Versions Affected: 2019.010.20069 and earlier, 2017.011.30113 and earlier, 2015.006.30464 and earlier
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious PDF file and tricking a user into opening it, triggering the use after free condition.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2019-7018 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Adobe Acrobat and Reader to the latest version to patch the vulnerability.
- Exercise caution when opening PDF files from untrusted sources.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and applications to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
- Implement security awareness training to educate users on safe computing practices.
Patching and Updates
Adobe has released security updates to address CVE-2019-7018. Ensure that all affected systems are promptly patched to prevent exploitation.