CVE-2011-2439 in Acrobat
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Reader and Acrobat 8.x before 8.3.1, 9.x before 9.4.6, and 10.x before 10.1.1 allow attackers to execute arbitrary code via unspecified vectors, related to a "memory leakage condition vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/20/2021
Adobe Reader and Acrobat versions prior to 8.3.1, 9.4.6, and 10.1.1 contain a memory leakage condition vulnerability that enables remote code execution attacks. This vulnerability stems from improper memory management within the software's handling of certain file formats and objects, creating opportunities for malicious actors to exploit memory corruption conditions. The flaw represents a critical security weakness that can be leveraged by attackers to gain unauthorized control over affected systems. The unspecified vectors suggest that multiple attack surfaces within the application's memory handling mechanisms could be exploited, potentially including malformed PDF files, embedded objects, or specific document structures that trigger the memory leakage condition. This type of vulnerability commonly falls under CWE-122, which describes "Heap-based Buffer Overflow" conditions where insufficient memory management leads to buffer overflows and potential code execution. The memory leakage condition creates a scenario where attackers can manipulate memory allocation patterns to inject and execute malicious code within the application's process space.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise when exploited successfully. Attackers can leverage this memory leakage condition to escalate privileges, install backdoors, or deploy additional malware payloads. The vulnerability's nature as a memory-based flaw means that exploitation typically requires careful crafting of malicious input that can manipulate heap memory structures and overwrite critical program execution flow. This creates a sophisticated attack surface that aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, as attackers may use the executed code to establish persistent access or exfiltrate data. The memory leakage condition also enables attackers to bypass certain security controls and defenses, as the vulnerability operates at a low level within the application's memory management system. Systems running vulnerable versions of Adobe Reader and Acrobat become particularly susceptible to targeted attacks where adversaries craft specific documents designed to trigger the memory corruption condition during normal document processing operations.
Organizations should prioritize immediate patching of all affected Adobe Reader and Acrobat installations to mitigate this vulnerability. The recommended remediation involves upgrading to Adobe Reader 8.3.1, Acrobat 9.4.6, or Acrobat 10.1.1, which contain fixes for the memory leakage condition. Security teams should implement network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability, as attackers often attempt to deliver malicious PDF files through email attachments or compromised websites. Additional mitigations include disabling PDF processing in web browsers, implementing strict file type validation, and conducting regular security assessments of document handling processes. The vulnerability's classification as a memory-based condition also necessitates monitoring for unusual memory allocation patterns or process behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of unauthorized code, particularly in environments where users frequently process untrusted PDF documents. Regular security awareness training for end users can help reduce the risk of successful exploitation through social engineering attacks that deliver malicious PDF files to unsuspecting victims.