CVE-2011-0600 in Acrobat Reader
Summary
by MITRE
The U3D component in Adobe Reader and Acrobat 10.x before 10.0.1, 9.x before 9.4.2, and 8.x before 8.2.6 on Windows and Mac OS X allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a 3D file with an invalid Parent Node count that triggers an incorrect size calculation and memory corruption, a different vulnerability than CVE-2011-0590, CVE-2011-0591, CVE-2011-0592, CVE-2011-0593, and CVE-2011-0595.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-0600 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Adobe Reader and Acrobat's U3D (Universal 3D) component that affects multiple versions across Windows and Mac OS X platforms. This security issue stems from improper handling of 3D file structures where the software fails to correctly validate the Parent Node count parameter in U3D files. The flaw occurs when a maliciously crafted 3D file contains an invalid Parent Node count that triggers incorrect size calculations during memory allocation processes. This mismanagement of memory boundaries creates opportunities for remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems, making it a significant threat vector for cyber attacks targeting users of Adobe's document processing software.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a classic buffer overflow condition that arises from inadequate input validation within the U3D parsing logic. When Adobe Reader or Acrobat processes a U3D file, it calculates memory requirements based on the Parent Node count field provided in the file structure. However, when this field contains invalid or malicious values, the calculation results in insufficient memory allocation or incorrect memory mapping that can be exploited to overwrite adjacent memory regions. This memory corruption allows attackers to inject and execute malicious code with the privileges of the affected application, typically resulting in complete system compromise. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-121, heap-based buffer overflow, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter execution through compromised applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-0600 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass full system compromise and potential data exfiltration capabilities for threat actors. Organizations running affected versions of Adobe Reader or Acrobat face significant risk exposure since these applications are widely deployed across enterprise environments for document processing and viewing. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means attackers can deliver malicious 3D files through email attachments, web downloads, or compromised websites without requiring local system access. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability could potentially gain persistent access to systems, escalate privileges, and establish backdoor access for extended periods. The flaw's similarity to other CVE-2011-0590 through CVE-2011-0595 vulnerabilities suggests a broader pattern of memory corruption issues within Adobe's 3D rendering components, making comprehensive patch management essential for organizational security. This vulnerability directly impacts Adobe's security posture and demonstrates the importance of robust input validation in multimedia processing components that handle complex file formats.
Organizations should prioritize immediate patch deployment for all affected Adobe Reader and Acrobat versions, including 10.x before 10.0.1, 9.x before 9.4.2, and 8.x before 8.2.6 across both Windows and Mac OS X platforms. Security administrators should implement network-based controls to block or scan 3D file attachments and implement application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of potentially malicious U3D files. System monitoring should focus on detecting unusual memory allocation patterns or process behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of opening untrusted 3D files and the importance of keeping Adobe software updated with the latest security patches. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw emphasizes the need for comprehensive security awareness training and incident response procedures to mitigate potential exploitation attempts.