CVE-2020-3749 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2019.021.20061 and earlier, 2017.011.30156 and earlier, 2017.011.30156 and earlier, and 2015.006.30508 and earlier have a use after free vulnerability that could lead to arbitrary code execution.

Understanding CVE-2020-3749

Adobe Acrobat and Reader are affected by a use after free vulnerability, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code.

What is CVE-2020-3749?

CVE-2020-3749 is a use after free vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2019.021.20061 and earlier, 2017.011.30156 and earlier, 2017.011.30156 and earlier, and 2015.006.30508 and earlier.

The Impact of CVE-2020-3749

Successful exploitation of this vulnerability could result in arbitrary code execution on the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-3749

Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2019.021.20061 and earlier, 2017.011.30156 and earlier, 2017.011.30156 and earlier, and 2015.006.30508 and earlier are susceptible to a use after free vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code by leveraging the use after free issue in the affected versions.

Affected Systems and Versions

Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2019.021.20061 and earlier
Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2017.011.30156 and earlier
Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2015.006.30508 and earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious PDF file and convincing a user to open it, triggering the use after free condition.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps to mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2020-3749.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Adobe Acrobat and Reader to the latest patched versions.
Exercise caution when opening PDF files from untrusted sources.
Implement security best practices to reduce the attack surface.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to patch known vulnerabilities.
Educate users on the importance of cybersecurity awareness and safe browsing habits.

Patching and Updates

Adobe has released patches to address the use after free vulnerability in affected versions. Ensure that your Adobe Acrobat and Reader installations are updated to the latest versions.