CVE-2021-39841 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Adobe Acrobat Pro DC DocMedia Type Confusion Remote Code Execution Vulnerability discovered on September 14, 2021.

Understanding CVE-2021-39841

A Type Confusion vulnerability in Acrobat Reader DC versions can allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code.

What is CVE-2021-39841?

Vulnerability in Acrobat Reader DC versions 2021.005.20060 and earlier
Attack requires user interaction by opening a malicious file

The Impact of CVE-2021-39841

CVSS Base Score: 7.8 (High Severity)
Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Local
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: Required

Technical Details of CVE-2021-39841

Acrobat Reader DC is affected by a Type Confusion vulnerability that allows remote code execution.

Vulnerability Description

Attacker can execute arbitrary code in the context of the user

Affected Systems and Versions

Acrobat Reader DC versions 2021.005.20060 and earlier
Versions 2020.004.30006 and 2017.011.30199 are also affected

Exploitation Mechanism

Requires a victim to open a malicious file

Mitigation and Prevention

Adobe recommends taking immediate steps to address the vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Acrobat Reader to the latest version
Avoid opening files from untrusted sources

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and security patches
Educate users on safe browsing practices
Implement advanced threat protection measures

Patching and Updates

Adobe released security updates to address the vulnerability