CVE-2017-11226 in Acrobat Reader
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Acrobat Reader 2017.009.20058 and earlier, 2017.008.30051 and earlier, 2015.006.30306 and earlier, and 11.0.20 and earlier has an exploitable memory corruption vulnerability in the image processing engine when processing JPEG 2000 (JP2) code stream data. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/30/2024
This vulnerability exists within Adobe Acrobat Reader's image processing engine where it fails to properly validate JP2 code stream data during JPEG 2000 image parsing operations. The memory corruption occurs when the application attempts to process malformed or specially crafted JP2 files, leading to unpredictable memory behavior that can be exploited by attackers. The flaw represents a classic buffer overflow condition where insufficient input validation allows malicious data to overwrite adjacent memory regions, potentially enabling remote code execution. This vulnerability affects multiple versions of Adobe Acrobat Reader across different release cycles, indicating a persistent issue within the image processing subsystem that was not adequately addressed in the affected software versions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking within the JPEG 2000 decoder component of Adobe Reader's multimedia processing engine. When parsing JP2 files, the application does not adequately verify the length or structure of code stream data, allowing attackers to craft malicious input that triggers memory corruption during decompression operations. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, though the actual implementation likely involves heap corruption due to dynamic memory allocation patterns in image processing libraries. The vulnerability can be triggered through simple file manipulation, making it particularly dangerous as users may encounter malicious JP2 files in PDF documents, email attachments, or web downloads without realizing the risk.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution as it provides attackers with a sophisticated attack vector that can be leveraged in targeted campaigns or mass exploitation attempts. Successful exploitation allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the affected application, potentially leading to full system compromise. Attackers can craft malicious PDF documents containing embedded JP2 images that trigger the vulnerability when opened, making this a prime candidate for phishing attacks or supply chain compromises. The vulnerability's widespread presence across multiple versions of Adobe Reader increases its exploitability potential, as organizations with legacy systems or delayed patch management may remain vulnerable for extended periods. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter and T1203 for exploitation for client execution, representing a critical entry point for malware deployment.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of affected Adobe Reader versions, as Adobe released security updates addressing this specific vulnerability in their regular release cycles. Organizations should implement strict file validation policies that scan for potentially malicious JP2 content within PDF documents before allowing user access. Network-based defenses including web application firewalls and email security gateways can help detect and block malicious JP2 files through content inspection. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of opening untrusted PDF documents and the importance of keeping software updated should be emphasized. System hardening measures such as disabling automatic PDF viewing in web browsers and implementing sandboxing technologies can provide additional protection layers. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory safety practices in multimedia processing libraries, highlighting the need for comprehensive security testing of image and document processing components within enterprise applications.