CVE-2019-8238 : Security Advisory and Response

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 Path Traversal vulnerability that could lead to Information Disclosure.

Understanding CVE-2019-8238

This CVE pertains to a vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions that allows for Path Traversal, potentially leading to the disclosure of information within the current user's context.

What is CVE-2019-8238?

CVE-2019-8238 is a security vulnerability found in various versions of Adobe Acrobat and Reader that could be exploited to disclose sensitive information by traversing file paths.

The Impact of CVE-2019-8238

The exploitation of this vulnerability could result in the unauthorized disclosure of information within the user's context, posing a risk to data confidentiality.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-8238

Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions are affected by a Path Traversal vulnerability that can be exploited for information disclosure.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows attackers to traverse file paths, potentially accessing and disclosing sensitive information.

Affected Systems and Versions

Adobe Acrobat and Reader 2019.010.20100 and earlier versions
Adobe Acrobat and Reader 2019.010.20099 and earlier versions
Adobe Acrobat and Reader 2017.011.30140 and earlier version
Adobe Acrobat and Reader 2017.011.30138 and earlier version
Adobe Acrobat and Reader 2015.006.30495 and earlier versions
Adobe Acrobat and Reader 2015.006.30493 and earlier versions

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by manipulating file paths to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information within the user's context.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2019-8238, users and organizations should take immediate and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Adobe Acrobat and Reader to the latest patched versions.
Implement access controls to restrict file system access.
Monitor and log file access activities for unusual behavior.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches promptly.
Conduct security training to educate users on safe computing practices.
Employ network segmentation to limit the impact of potential breaches.

Patching and Updates

Adobe has released patches to address the vulnerability. Ensure that all affected systems are updated to the latest secure versions.