CVE-2023-21608 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE involves a Use-After-Free Remote Code Execution Vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat Reader DC, which can lead to arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user. Users need to be cautious while opening potentially malicious files to avoid exploitation of this vulnerability.

Understanding CVE-2023-21608

Adobe Acrobat Reader versions 22.003.20282 (and earlier), 22.003.20281 (and earlier), and 20.005.30418 (and earlier) are affected by a Use After Free vulnerability. This vulnerability requires user interaction, where a victim must open a malicious file for exploitation to occur.

What is CVE-2023-21608?

CVE-2023-21608 is a Use-After-Free Remote Code Execution Vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat Reader DC that allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user. This can have severe implications for the security and integrity of the affected systems.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21608

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as HIGH, with a base score of 7.8 according to CVSS v3.1 metrics. It poses a significant risk as it can lead to confidentiality, integrity, and availability compromises on the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21608

This section dives deeper into the technical aspects of the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism involved.

Vulnerability Description

The Use-After-Free vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat Reader DC allows attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data breaches, and system compromise.

Affected Systems and Versions

Adobe Acrobat Reader versions 22.003.20282, 22.003.20281, and 20.005.30418 are confirmed to be vulnerable to this exploit. Users with these versions should take immediate action to mitigate the risk.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit CVE-2023-21608, attackers need to craft a malicious file and trick a victim into opening it. Once the file is opened, the vulnerability can be exploited to execute arbitrary code, compromising the security of the user's system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2023-21608 requires immediate steps to mitigate the risk and long-term security practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Adobe Acrobat Reader to the latest secure version.
Avoid opening files from untrusted or unknown sources.
Implement security best practices to reduce the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to patch known vulnerabilities.
Educate users on the importance of safe browsing habits and file handling.
Utilize security solutions such as antivirus and intrusion detection systems to detect and prevent exploits.

Patching and Updates

Adobe has released security updates to address CVE-2023-21608. Users are strongly advised to apply the latest patches provided by Adobe to secure their systems and prevent potential exploitation of this vulnerability.