CVE-2019-7796 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2019.010.20100 and earlier, 2019.010.20099 and earlier, 2017.011.30140 and earlier, 2017.011.30138 and earlier, 2015.006.30495 and earlier, and 2015.006.30493 and earlier are affected by a use after free vulnerability that could allow for arbitrary code execution.

Understanding CVE-2019-7796

This CVE identifies a critical vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader software.

What is CVE-2019-7796?

CVE-2019-7796 is a use after free vulnerability found in various versions of Adobe Acrobat and Reader. Exploiting this flaw could lead to the execution of arbitrary code.

The Impact of CVE-2019-7796

If successfully exploited, this vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code on the affected system, potentially leading to further compromise or unauthorized access.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-7796

Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions are susceptible to this security issue.

Vulnerability Description

The use after free vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2019.010.20100 and earlier, 2019.010.20099 and earlier, 2017.011.30140 and earlier, 2017.011.30138 and earlier, 2015.006.30495 and earlier, and 2015.006.30493 and earlier could be exploited to execute arbitrary code.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Adobe Acrobat and Reader
Vendor: Adobe
Vulnerable Versions: 2019.010.20100 and earlier, 2019.010.20099 and earlier, 2017.011.30140 and earlier, 2017.011.30138 and earlier, 2015.006.30495 and earlier, 2015.006.30493 and earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker to trigger the use after free condition and execute malicious code on the target system.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Adobe Acrobat and Reader to the latest patched versions.
Consider implementing security measures to detect and block attempts to exploit this vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

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

Patching and Updates

Adobe has released patches to address this vulnerability. Ensure that all affected systems are updated with the latest security fixes.