CVE-2020-24436 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-24436 affecting Adobe Acrobat Pro DC versions, allowing arbitrary code execution. Find mitigation steps and the impact of this critical vulnerability.
Acrobat Pro DC versions 2020.012.20048 (and earlier), 2020.001.30005 (and earlier), and 2017.011.30175 (and earlier) are affected by an out-of-bounds write vulnerability that could lead to arbitrary code execution.
Understanding CVE-2020-24436
This CVE involves a critical vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat Pro DC that could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code on the victim's system.
What is CVE-2020-24436?
The vulnerability in Acrobat Pro DC versions allows an attacker to write past the end of an allocated memory structure, potentially leading to code execution within the user's context.
The Impact of CVE-2020-24436
- CVSS Base Score: 7.8 (High)
- Attack Vector: Local
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Privileges Required: None
- User Interaction: Required
- Confidentiality Impact: High
- Integrity Impact: High
- Availability Impact: High
- This vulnerability poses a significant risk as it requires user interaction to exploit, typically through opening a malicious document.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-24436
Adobe Acrobat Pro DC is susceptible to an out-of-bounds write vulnerability, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows an attacker to write beyond the allocated memory structure, enabling the execution of malicious code within the user's context.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Adobe Acrobat Reader versions 2017.011.30175, 2020.012.20048, and 2020.001.30005 are impacted.
Exploitation Mechanism
- An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by tricking a user into opening a specially crafted PDF document.
Mitigation and Prevention
It is crucial to take immediate steps to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2020-24436.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Adobe Acrobat Pro DC to the latest patched version.
- Avoid opening PDF files from untrusted or unknown sources.
- Educate users about the risks of opening suspicious documents.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and applications to patch known vulnerabilities.
- Implement security awareness training to educate users on safe computing practices.
Patching and Updates
- Adobe has released patches to address this vulnerability. Ensure all systems are updated with the latest security fixes.