CVE-2017-2929 in Acrobat Chrome Extension
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Acrobat Chrome extension version 15.1.0.3 and earlier have a DOM-based cross-site scripting vulnerability. Successful exploitation could lead to JavaScript code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/14/2026
Adobe Acrobat Chrome extension version 15.1.0.3 and earlier contains a dom-based cross-site scripting vulnerability that represents a critical security flaw in the browser extension's input validation mechanisms. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category of cross-site scripting attacks, specifically targeting the document object model which is a core component of web application security. The flaw occurs when the extension fails to properly sanitize user input within the DOM context, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary javascript code that executes within the extension's privileged environment. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it leverages the extension's legitimate functionality to bypass normal security boundaries, making it difficult to detect and prevent through standard web application firewalls or security measures.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows an attacker to manipulate the extension's behavior through crafted malicious payloads delivered via web pages or documents that the extension processes. When the vulnerable extension encounters such input, it fails to properly escape or validate the data before incorporating it into the DOM structure, creating an execution path where attacker-controlled javascript code can be interpreted and executed. This creates a persistent threat vector since the extension operates with elevated privileges within the browser context, potentially enabling attackers to access sensitive user data, perform unauthorized actions, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the extension's widespread adoption and its ability to process various document formats that users frequently encounter in their daily browsing activities.
The operational consequences of this vulnerability extend beyond simple script execution, as it can be exploited to create more sophisticated attacks that leverage the extension's capabilities to harvest user credentials, access confidential documents, or perform unauthorized modifications to the user's system. Attackers can craft malicious web pages or document files that, when processed by the vulnerable extension, trigger the execution of malicious javascript code that operates with the extension's full privileges. This presents a significant risk to enterprise environments where users may encounter compromised documents or websites as part of their regular workflow, potentially leading to data breaches or system compromise. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for scripting and T1566 for spearphishing with social engineering, as it enables attackers to leverage legitimate extension functionality for malicious purposes.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the affected Adobe Acrobat Chrome extension to version 15.1.1 or later, which includes proper input sanitization and DOM validation measures. Organizations should implement browser extension management policies that restrict the installation and execution of potentially vulnerable extensions, particularly those that process sensitive document types. Network administrators should monitor for suspicious extension activity and consider implementing content security policies that limit the execution of javascript within extension contexts. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of opening untrusted documents and visiting malicious websites remains crucial, as social engineering remains a primary vector for exploitation. The remediation process should also include regular security assessments of browser extensions to identify and address similar vulnerabilities across the organization's technology stack, ensuring comprehensive protection against similar dom-based cross-site scripting threats that may exist in other browser components or extensions.