CVE-2021-28641 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Adobe Acrobat Reader Use-After-Free Arbitrary Code Execution Vulnerability On July 13, 2021, Adobe disclosed a critical Use-After-Free vulnerability impacting Adobe Acrobat Reader versions 2021.005.20054 and earlier, 2020.004.30005 and earlier, as well as 2017.011.30197 and earlier. Exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user, requiring user interaction by opening a malicious file.

Understanding CVE-2021-28641

This section discusses the details and impact of the Adobe Acrobat Reader Use-After-Free vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-28641?

CVE-2021-28641 is a Use-After-Free vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat Reader that allows an unauthenticated attacker to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to system compromise.

The Impact of CVE-2021-28641

The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 7.8, indicating a high severity issue. Attack complexity is low, requiring local access and user interaction. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems are at high risk.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-28641

Here, we delve into the technical aspects of the Use-After-Free vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The Use-After-Free flaw in Adobe Acrobat Reader could be exploited by an attacker to achieve arbitrary code execution on the victim's system.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects Adobe Acrobat Reader versions 2021.005.20054, 2020.004.30005, and 2017.011.30197, and earlier versions.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit the vulnerability, an attacker would need to entice a user into opening a specially crafted malicious file.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section provides guidance on mitigating the risks associated with CVE-2021-28641.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update Adobe Acrobat Reader to the latest patched version to eliminate the security flaw and prevent exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Practicing caution while opening files from untrusted sources and maintaining up-to-date security software are essential for preventing similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Regularly checking for software updates from Adobe and promptly applying them can help in safeguarding systems against known security threats.