CVE-2023-38246 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2023-38246 impacting Adobe Acrobat Reader, allowing arbitrary code execution. Find out the affected versions, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
Adobe Acrobat Reader versions 23.003.20244 (and earlier) and 20.005.30467 (and earlier) are affected by an Access of Uninitialized Pointer vulnerability that could result in arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user. This vulnerability requires user interaction in that a victim must open a malicious file.
Understanding CVE-2023-38246
This CVE involves an Access of Uninitialized Pointer vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat Reader DC ActiveX Control (AxAcroPDFLib.AxAcroPDF) that could lead to arbitrary code execution in the user's context.
What is CVE-2023-38246?
CVE-2023-38246 is a vulnerability in Adobe Acrobat Reader that allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code by exploiting an uninitialized pointer.
The Impact of CVE-2023-38246
The impact of this vulnerability is high, as it could lead to arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user, posing a significant security risk.
Technical Details of CVE-2023-38246
Adobe Acrobat Reader DC ActiveX Control (AxAcroPDFLib.AxAcroPDF) is susceptible to a stack-based stale pointer vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises due to an Access of Uninitialized Pointer, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution.
Affected Systems and Versions
Adobe Acrobat Reader versions 23.003.20244 and 20.005.30467, and earlier versions, are impacted by this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
Exploitation of this issue requires user interaction, where a malicious file needs to be opened by the victim.
Mitigation and Prevention
To mitigate the risk associated with CVE-2023-38246, immediate steps need to be taken along with the implementation of long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users are advised to update Adobe Acrobat Reader to the latest version and refrain from opening files from untrusted sources.
Long-Term Security Practices
Regularly update software, use security tools, and be cautious while interacting with unknown or suspicious files.
Patching and Updates
Adobe has released a security advisory addressing this vulnerability. Users should apply the necessary patches as soon as possible to protect their systems.