CVE-2021-21040 : What You Need to Know

Adobe Acrobat Reader DC versions 2020.013.20074 and earlier, 2020.001.30018 and earlier, and 2017.011.30188 and earlier are affected by a Use After Free vulnerability. An attacker could exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary code.

Understanding CVE-2021-21040

This CVE involves a Use After Free vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat Reader DC, potentially allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code.

What is CVE-2021-21040?

Acrobat Reader DC versions 2020.013.20074 (and earlier), 2020.001.30018 (and earlier), and 2017.011.30188 (and earlier) are impacted by a Use After Free vulnerability. Attackers can achieve arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user by exploiting this flaw, which requires user interaction.

The Impact of CVE-2021-21040

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 7.8, classified as HIGH severity. An unauthenticated attacker could exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary code, posing a significant risk to confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-21040

This section covers the specifics of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The Use After Free flaw in Adobe Acrobat Reader DC versions allows attackers to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user. Exploitation necessitates user interaction.

Affected Systems and Versions

Adobe Acrobat Reader DC versions 2020.013.20074 and earlier, 2020.001.30018 and earlier, and 2017.011.30188 and earlier are impacted.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by convincing a victim to open a malicious file, granting them the opportunity to execute arbitrary code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn how to mitigate the risk and prevent exploitation of CVE-2021-21040.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update Acrobat Reader DC to the latest version to mitigate this vulnerability. Exercise caution when interacting with unknown or suspicious files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software, maintain vigilance when opening files from untrusted sources, and consider implementing additional security measures to safeguard against potential threats.

Patching and Updates

Adobe has released security updates to address this vulnerability. Users should promptly apply these patches to protect their systems.