CVE-2002-1016 in Digital Editions
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe eBook Reader allows a user to bypass restrictions for copy, print, lend, and give operations by backing up key data files, performing the operations, and restoring the original data files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/17/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-1016 represents a significant security flaw in Adobe eBook Reader software that undermines the digital rights management protections implemented by the application. This weakness specifically targets the copy, print, lend, and give operations that are typically restricted within eBook content to prevent unauthorized distribution and copying of copyrighted material. The vulnerability exploits the software's handling of key data files that control these operational restrictions, creating a method for users to circumvent the intended security controls.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate file management and access control mechanisms within the eBook Reader application. When users attempt to perform restricted operations such as copying or printing eBook content, the software relies on specific data files that contain the operational parameters and restriction settings. The flaw allows malicious or curious users to backup these critical data files before attempting restricted operations, execute the operations while the backup exists, and then restore the original data files to maintain the appearance of normal operation while effectively bypassing the intended restrictions. This process essentially creates a temporary loophole in the digital rights management system that allows unauthorized actions to be performed.
The operational impact of CVE-2002-1016 extends beyond simple unauthorized copying or printing of eBook content to encompass broader digital rights management failures that could compromise the entire ecosystem of protected digital content. Content creators and publishers who rely on eBook Reader software to protect their intellectual property face significant risks as this vulnerability enables unauthorized distribution and sharing of copyrighted material. The vulnerability particularly affects publishers who implement lending and giving operations within their eBook platforms, as these features can be exploited to create unlimited copies of content that would normally be restricted to specific users or time periods. This undermines the business models of digital publishing platforms that depend on controlling access and distribution rights.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-693 - Protection Mechanism Failure, which encompasses situations where protection mechanisms are either missing, insufficient, or can be easily bypassed through legitimate application functionality. The flaw represents a classic example of inadequate access control implementation where the software's own backup and restore functionality becomes a vector for privilege escalation. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1059 - Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1068 - Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, as it allows users to effectively escalate their privileges within the software's operational environment to perform actions outside of the intended access controls.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-1016 should focus on implementing proper file access controls and preventing unauthorized modification of critical data files that control operational restrictions. Organizations should ensure that eBook Reader applications are properly updated with patches that address this vulnerability, as Adobe would have likely released security updates to fix the file handling mechanisms. Network administrators should consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict access to the eBook Reader application and its associated data files. Additionally, content publishers should be aware that this vulnerability may affect their digital rights management strategies and should consider implementing additional protection layers beyond the application-level controls. Regular security audits of digital content delivery systems should include checks for similar vulnerabilities in other software components that handle restricted operations and data protection mechanisms.