CVE-2015-7620 in Acrobat Reader
Summary
by MITRE
The ANSendForBrowserReview 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-2015-6718, 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, and CVE-2015-7623.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-7620 represents a critical security flaw in Adobe Reader and Acrobat products that affects multiple versions across different operating systems. This issue specifically targets the ANSendForBrowserReview method, which is part of the JavaScript API execution framework within Adobe's document processing software. The vulnerability allows attackers to circumvent established security restrictions that normally prevent malicious JavaScript code from executing with elevated privileges or accessing restricted system functions. Unlike other vulnerabilities in the same advisory, CVE-2015-7620 operates through distinct attack vectors that exploit weaknesses in the API execution controls, making it particularly dangerous as it can bypass multiple layers of security that should otherwise protect users from malicious document manipulation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper validation within the ANSendForBrowserReview method, which is designed to handle browser review functionality for documents. When processing maliciously crafted PDF files, the method fails to properly enforce JavaScript API execution restrictions that are typically in place to prevent unauthorized access to system resources. This flaw enables attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code with privileges that should be restricted, potentially allowing for privilege escalation, system compromise, or data exfiltration. The vulnerability affects specific version ranges including Adobe Reader 10.x before 10.1.16 and 11.x before 11.0.13, along with various Acrobat and Acrobat Reader DC versions, making it widespread across multiple product lines and operating systems including Windows and OS X platforms.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-7620 extends beyond simple code execution as it fundamentally undermines the security model of Adobe's document processing applications. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to bypass security controls that are essential for protecting users from malicious documents, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability's ability to bypass JavaScript API execution restrictions means that malicious actors can perform actions such as accessing the file system, executing system commands, or communicating with external servers without proper authorization. This represents a significant threat to enterprise environments where Adobe Reader and Acrobat are widely deployed, as it provides attackers with a method to circumvent security controls that are typically effective against similar threats. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control in software systems.
Organizations affected by CVE-2015-7620 should implement immediate mitigation strategies to reduce exposure risk. The most effective approach involves applying the security patches released by Adobe as part of their regular update cycle, specifically targeting the affected versions mentioned in the advisory. System administrators should prioritize updating all instances of Adobe Reader and Acrobat across the enterprise, particularly those running the vulnerable version ranges. Additional mitigations include implementing strict email filtering policies to prevent users from opening potentially malicious PDF files, disabling JavaScript execution in Adobe Reader when possible, and conducting security awareness training to help users identify suspicious documents. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving privilege escalation and execution of malicious code, making it particularly concerning for threat actors seeking persistent access to target systems. Organizations should also consider network segmentation and monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts, as the vulnerability could be leveraged in targeted attacks against specific high-value targets within an organization's infrastructure.