CVE-2016-1094 in Acrobat Reader
Summary
by MITRE
Use-after-free vulnerability in Adobe Reader and Acrobat before 11.0.16, Acrobat and Acrobat Reader DC Classic before 15.006.30172, and Acrobat and Acrobat Reader DC Continuous before 15.016.20039 on Windows and OS X allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via unspecified vectors, a different vulnerability than CVE-2016-1045, CVE-2016-1046, CVE-2016-1047, CVE-2016-1048, CVE-2016-1049, CVE-2016-1050, CVE-2016-1051, CVE-2016-1052, CVE-2016-1053, CVE-2016-1054, CVE-2016-1055, CVE-2016-1056, CVE-2016-1057, CVE-2016-1058, CVE-2016-1059, CVE-2016-1060, CVE-2016-1061, CVE-2016-1065, CVE-2016-1066, CVE-2016-1067, CVE-2016-1068, CVE-2016-1069, CVE-2016-1070, CVE-2016-1075, CVE-2016-1121, CVE-2016-1122, CVE-2016-4102, and CVE-2016-4107.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/22/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-1094 represents a critical use-after-free condition affecting Adobe Reader and Acrobat products across multiple versions. This flaw exists within the memory management mechanisms of these applications, specifically in how they handle certain objects in memory after their intended use has concluded. The vulnerability manifests when the application attempts to access memory locations that have already been freed, creating opportunities for malicious actors to manipulate program execution flow. The affected versions include Adobe Reader before 11.0.16, Acrobat and Acrobat Reader DC Classic before 15.006.30172, and Acrobat and Acrobat Reader DC Continuous before 15.016.20039 on both Windows and OS X operating systems.
This use-after-free vulnerability operates under the Common Weakness Enumeration classification of CWE-416, which specifically addresses the use of memory after it has been freed. The flaw enables attackers to execute arbitrary code through unspecified vectors that typically involve crafting malicious PDF files designed to trigger the vulnerable memory handling behavior. The attack requires the victim to open a specially crafted PDF document, which then exploits the memory management error during document processing. Unlike other vulnerabilities in the same CVE family, CVE-2016-1094 presents a distinct exploitation pathway that leverages the specific memory corruption patterns inherent in the affected Adobe products.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with potential access to complete system compromise. When successfully exploited, the vulnerability allows for privilege escalation and persistent access to target systems. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that PDF files are commonly shared through email attachments, web downloads, and document sharing platforms. Security researchers have noted that exploitation of this vulnerability often requires sophisticated techniques to achieve reliable code execution, as modern memory protection mechanisms such as ASLR and DEP can complicate exploitation attempts. However, the presence of multiple affected versions across different product lines creates widespread exposure for organizations using Adobe's document processing software.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-1094 primarily focus on immediate patch deployment and operational security measures. Organizations should prioritize updating to patched versions of Adobe Reader and Acrobat, specifically targeting Adobe Reader 11.0.16 and Acrobat/Reader DC versions 15.006.30172 and 15.016.20039 respectively. Additional protective measures include implementing PDF file scanning and filtering at network perimeters, disabling Adobe Reader's JavaScript functionality, and employing sandboxing techniques to isolate document processing activities. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques involving execution through compromised applications and privilege escalation, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where document processing is common. The vulnerability also demonstrates how legacy software support and timely patch management remain critical components of overall cybersecurity posture, as the exploitation window extends across multiple product versions and release cycles.