CVE-2021-40729 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Adobe Acrobat Reader DC version 21.007.20095 (and earlier) is affected by an out-of-bounds read vulnerability that could lead to sensitive memory disclosure.

Understanding CVE-2021-40729

Adobe Acrobat Reader DC is susceptible to an out-of-bounds read vulnerability, potentially exploitable by malicious PDF files.

What is CVE-2021-40729?

The vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat Reader DC could allow an attacker to disclose sensitive memory, bypassing mitigations like ASLR.

The Impact of CVE-2021-40729

The vulnerability has a low CVSS base score of 3.3, with a low confidentiality impact and requires user interaction to exploit.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-40729

Adobe Acrobat Reader DC PDF Out-of-Bound Read Vulnerability Information Disclosure

Vulnerability Description

Type: Out-of-bounds Read (CWE-125)
Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Local

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Acrobat Reader
Vendor: Adobe
Vulnerable Versions:
21.007.20095 and earlier
21.007.20096 and earlier
20.004.30015 and earlier
17.011.30202 and earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploitation requires a victim to open a malicious PDF file, facilitating the disclosure of sensitive memory.

Mitigation and Prevention

Implement the following measures to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-40729:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Adobe Acrobat Reader DC to the latest version.
Avoid opening PDF files from untrusted or unknown sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly apply security patches and updates.
Educate users on recognizing and avoiding potentially harmful PDF files.
Utilize endpoint protection solutions to detect and prevent exploitation attempts.
Consider implementing sandboxing mechanisms to contain potential threats.
Monitor and analyze network traffic for any suspicious activity.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Adobe to address the vulnerability and enhance the security of Acrobat Reader DC.