CVE-2019-8215 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2019-8215, a use after free vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2019.012.20040 and earlier, 2017.011.30148 and earlier, and 2015.006.30503 and earlier, potentially allowing arbitrary code execution. Find out how to mitigate and prevent this security risk.
A use after free vulnerability has been identified in several versions of Adobe Acrobat and Reader, potentially allowing arbitrary code execution.
Understanding CVE-2019-8215
A vulnerability affecting Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions.
What is CVE-2019-8215?
CVE-2019-8215 is a use after free vulnerability found in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2019.012.20040 and earlier, 2017.011.30148 and earlier, and 2015.006.30503 and earlier. Exploiting this flaw could lead to arbitrary code execution.
The Impact of CVE-2019-8215
The vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code on the affected system, potentially leading to further compromise or data theft.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-8215
Details about the vulnerability and affected systems.
Vulnerability Description
A use after free vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions, which could be exploited for arbitrary code execution.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2019.012.20040 and earlier
- Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2017.011.30148 and earlier
- Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2015.006.30503 and earlier
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability could be exploited by a malicious actor to manipulate memory allocation, potentially leading to the execution of arbitrary code.
Mitigation and Prevention
Steps to mitigate and prevent exploitation of CVE-2019-8215.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Adobe Acrobat and Reader to the latest version available.
- Be cautious of opening PDF files from untrusted sources.
- Implement security best practices for PDF file handling.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and applications to patch known vulnerabilities.
- Educate users on safe browsing habits and potential risks associated with opening files from unknown sources.
Patching and Updates
Adobe has released patches to address this vulnerability. Ensure that your Adobe Acrobat and Reader installations are updated to the latest versions to mitigate the risk of exploitation.