CVE-2015-3066 in Acrobat Reader
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Reader and Acrobat 10.x before 10.1.14 and 11.x before 11.0.11 on Windows and OS X allow attackers to bypass intended restrictions on JavaScript API execution via unspecified vectors, a different vulnerability than CVE-2015-3060, CVE-2015-3061, CVE-2015-3062, CVE-2015-3063, CVE-2015-3064, CVE-2015-3065, CVE-2015-3067, CVE-2015-3068, CVE-2015-3069, CVE-2015-3071, CVE-2015-3072, CVE-2015-3073, and CVE-2015-3074.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/09/2024
Adobe Reader and Acrobat versions 10.x before 10.1.14 and 11.x before 11.0.11 on Windows and macOS platforms contain a security vulnerability that allows attackers to circumvent intended JavaScript API execution restrictions. This vulnerability specifically affects the sandboxing mechanisms that are designed to prevent malicious code from accessing sensitive system functions. The flaw enables unauthorized execution of JavaScript commands that should be restricted, creating a pathway for attackers to perform actions beyond the normal operational boundaries of the application. Unlike other vulnerabilities in the same CVE family, this particular issue involves distinct attack vectors that exploit different aspects of the software's security architecture. The vulnerability represents a critical weakness in Adobe's implementation of JavaScript security controls, where legitimate security restrictions are bypassed through undisclosed methods that allow for elevated privileges and system access.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation mechanisms within the JavaScript execution environment of Adobe Reader and Acrobat. When the application processes PDF files containing JavaScript code, it fails to properly enforce the security policies that should prevent access to certain API functions. This allows attackers to craft malicious PDF documents that can execute restricted JavaScript commands, potentially leading to unauthorized system access, data exfiltration, or privilege escalation. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the application level rather than at the operating system level, making it difficult to detect through traditional system-level security measures. The unspecified vectors suggest that the attack method may involve sophisticated techniques such as memory manipulation, API hooking, or exploitation of specific code paths that were not adequately secured.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant for organizations relying on Adobe Reader and Acrobat for document processing and viewing. Attackers could leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary code on targeted systems, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects both Windows and macOS platforms, expanding the potential attack surface across different operating environments. Organizations with extensive document processing workflows are particularly at risk, as malicious PDF files could be delivered through email attachments, web downloads, or other common attack vectors. The bypass of JavaScript API restrictions means that attackers could potentially access system resources, manipulate files, or execute commands that should be restricted in a secure document viewing environment. This vulnerability undermines the fundamental security model of PDF document viewers, where sandboxing is expected to prevent malicious code execution.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patch deployment to update Adobe Reader and Acrobat to versions 10.1.14 or 11.0.11 respectively. Organizations should also implement additional security measures such as disabling JavaScript execution in PDF viewers when not required for legitimate business operations. Network-based security controls including email filtering, web proxy scanning, and network traffic monitoring can help detect and block malicious PDF files before they reach end users. System administrators should consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict PDF viewer execution to trusted environments only. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-255 - Credentials Management Flaws and ATT&CK technique T1059.007 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript, highlighting the need for both credential security and script execution controls. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other document processing applications and ensure comprehensive protection against similar attack vectors.