CVE-2022-28261 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2022-28261 affecting Adobe Acrobat Reader versions 22.001.2011x, 20.005.3033x, and 17.012.3022x. Understand the impact, exploitation, and mitigation steps required.
Adobe Acrobat Reader DC Annotation Out-Of-Bounds Read Information Disclosure Vulnerability
Understanding CVE-2022-28261
This CVE affects Adobe Acrobat Reader, specifically versions 22.001.2011x, 20.005.3033x, and 17.012.3022x. It involves an out-of-bounds read vulnerability that could allow an attacker to read past the end of an allocated memory structure.
What is CVE-2022-28261?
The vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat Reader DC arises when parsing a crafted file, enabling a potential read beyond the allocated memory structure. Exploiting this issue requires user interaction, where the victim must open a malicious file.
The Impact of CVE-2022-28261
With a CVSS base score of 5.5 classified as 'Medium Severity,' this vulnerability could result in high confidentiality impact, allowing attackers to bypass mitigations like ASLR and potentially access sensitive information.
Technical Details of CVE-2022-28261
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows for an out-of-bounds read, posing a risk of information disclosure due to the memory structure manipulation when processing certain files.
Affected Systems and Versions
Adobe Acrobat Reader versions 22.001.2011x, 20.005.3033x, and 17.012.3022x are confirmed to be impacted.
Exploitation Mechanism
Successful exploitation requires the victim to interact by opening a maliciously crafted file, triggering the vulnerability to read past the allocated memory.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
Users are advised to update Adobe Acrobat Reader to the latest version available to mitigate this vulnerability. Additionally, exercise caution when opening files from unknown or untrusted sources.
Long-Term Security Practices
Regularly update software and implement security best practices to minimize the risk of exploitation from similar vulnerabilities in the future.
Patching and Updates
Adobe has released security updates to address this vulnerability. Users should promptly apply these patches to secure their systems.