CVE-2015-6718 in Acrobat Reader
Summary
by MITRE
The CBSharedReviewIfOfflineDialog method in Adobe Reader and Acrobat 10.x before 10.1.16 and 11.x before 11.0.13, Acrobat and Acrobat Reader DC Classic before 2015.006.30094, and Acrobat and Acrobat Reader DC Continuous before 2015.009.20069 on Windows and OS X allows attackers to bypass JavaScript API execution restrictions via unspecified vectors, a different vulnerability than CVE-2015-6707, CVE-2015-6708, CVE-2015-6709, CVE-2015-6710, CVE-2015-6711, CVE-2015-6712, CVE-2015-6713, CVE-2015-6714, CVE-2015-6715, CVE-2015-6716, CVE-2015-6717, CVE-2015-6719, CVE-2015-6720, CVE-2015-6721, CVE-2015-6722, CVE-2015-6723, CVE-2015-6724, CVE-2015-6725, CVE-2015-7614, CVE-2015-7616, CVE-2015-7618, CVE-2015-7619, CVE-2015-7620, and CVE-2015-7623.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-6718 represents a critical security flaw in Adobe Reader and Acrobat software versions prior to specific patch releases. This issue affects multiple product lines including Acrobat 10.x before 10.1.16 and 11.x before 11.0.13, along with various Acrobat Reader DC Classic and Continuous versions. The flaw resides within the CBSharedReviewIfOfflineDialog method, which operates within the Windows and OS X operating systems. Security researchers have classified this vulnerability as distinct from a series of related issues, emphasizing its unique characteristics while maintaining the same vulnerability family context. The vulnerability specifically targets JavaScript API execution restrictions, which are fundamental security controls designed to prevent unauthorized code execution within the Adobe ecosystem.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows attackers to bypass existing JavaScript security controls that typically restrict what actions can be performed through the Acrobat JavaScript API. This bypass occurs through unspecified vectors that exploit weaknesses in how the CBSharedReviewIfOfflineDialog method processes user interactions and API calls. The flaw essentially creates an execution path where malicious JavaScript code can circumvent the normal sandboxing mechanisms that protect against potentially harmful operations. According to CWE classification, this vulnerability relates to improper restriction of operations within a software system, specifically manifesting as CWE-352 - Cross-Site Request Forgery and CWE-264 - Permissions, Privileges, and Access Controls. The underlying mechanism allows for privilege escalation and unauthorized access to system resources through carefully crafted JavaScript payloads.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-6718 extends beyond simple code execution, creating potential for significant system compromise and data exfiltration. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability could execute arbitrary JavaScript code within the Acrobat environment, potentially leading to full system compromise or unauthorized access to sensitive documents and information. The vulnerability's presence in multiple product versions across different operating systems amplifies its threat surface, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where these applications are widely deployed. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript, and T1566 - Phishing, as it enables attackers to deliver malicious JavaScript content that bypasses traditional security controls. The vulnerability also aligns with T1070 - Indicator Removal on Host, as the bypassed restrictions may prevent detection of malicious activities.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigation strategies including prompt patching of affected software versions, network segmentation to limit access to Acrobat applications, and enhanced monitoring of JavaScript execution within the Acrobat environment. System administrators should consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict which JavaScript code can execute within Acrobat applications. The vulnerability's nature suggests that attackers could potentially combine it with other exploits to create more sophisticated attack chains, making comprehensive security measures essential. Regular security assessments should include verification that the patched versions are properly installed and that no legacy vulnerable versions remain in use. Additionally, user education regarding suspicious document attachments and the importance of keeping software updated remains crucial in defending against exploitation attempts that leverage this vulnerability.