CVE-2021-44710 : What You Need to Know

Adobe Acrobat Reader DC versions 21.007.20099 and earlier, 20.004.30017 and earlier, and 17.011.30204 and earlier are impacted by a use-after-free vulnerability. If exploited, arbitrary code execution may occur in the user's context.

Understanding CVE-2021-44710

This CVE involves a critical use-after-free vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat Reader that could potentially lead to arbitrary code execution by an attacker.

What is CVE-2021-44710?

CVE-2021-44710 is a vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat Reader DC versions 21.007.20099 and earlier, 20.004.30017 and earlier, and 17.011.30204 and earlier. The issue resides in the processing of Format event actions, allowing an opportunity for an attacker to execute arbitrary code.

The Impact of CVE-2021-44710

CVSS Base Score: 7.8 (High)
CVSS Vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
The vulnerability has a severe impact with high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impact ratings.
Attack complexity is low, but user interaction is required for exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-44710

Adobe Acrobat Reader is affected by a critical use-after-free vulnerability, posing a significant risk of arbitrary code execution if exploited.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from the mishandling of Format event actions in Adobe Acrobat Reader DC. Exploitation can lead to arbitrary code execution within the user's context, opening the door for potential cyberattacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

The following versions of Acrobat Reader are impacted:

Acrobat Reader DC 21.007.20099 and earlier
Acrobat Reader DC 20.004.30017 and earlier
Acrobat Reader DC 17.011.30204 and earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit this vulnerability, a victim must open a malicious file, triggering the use-after-free flaw and potentially allowing the attacker to execute arbitrary code within the user's environment.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2021-44710, immediate steps and long-term security practices are crucial.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update: Apply the latest security patches from Adobe to mitigate the vulnerability.
User Education: Train users not to open unsolicited or suspicious files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regular Updates: Maintain up-to-date software versions and security patches.
Endpoint Protection: Use security solutions to detect and prevent potential threats.

Patching and Updates

Adobe has released a security update to address this vulnerability. Ensure your Acrobat Reader is updated to the latest version to patch this critical issue.