CVE-2017-3013 in Acrobat Reader
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Acrobat Reader versions 11.0.19 and earlier, 15.006.30280 and earlier, 15.023.20070 and earlier have an insecure library loading (DLL hijacking) vulnerability in a DLL related to remote logging.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/29/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-3013 represents a critical insecure library loading flaw affecting multiple versions of Adobe Acrobat Reader software. This issue stems from the application's improper handling of dynamic link library (DLL) loading mechanisms, specifically within components related to remote logging functionality. The vulnerability manifests when the application attempts to load DLL files from insecure locations, creating opportunities for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected user. The flaw impacts Adobe Acrobat Reader versions 11.0.19 and earlier, as well as specific versions 15.006.30280 and earlier, and 15.023.20070 and earlier, indicating a widespread exposure across the software's product line.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-427, which describes an uncontrolled search path that allows attackers to load malicious DLLs instead of legitimate ones. The insecure library loading occurs when the Acrobat Reader application searches for required DLL files in predictable locations without proper validation of the file's authenticity or source. Attackers can exploit this by placing malicious DLL files in directories that are searched before the legitimate system directories, effectively hijacking the application's execution flow. This particular vulnerability leverages the remote logging component, suggesting that the malicious DLL loading occurs during network-related operations or when the application attempts to communicate with remote servers for logging purposes.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-3013 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with a pathway to execute arbitrary code within the context of the Acrobat Reader application. This vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including malicious PDF files, phishing campaigns, or compromised websites that prompt users to open documents containing the exploit. The attack requires user interaction to open the malicious file, making social engineering a critical component of successful exploitation. Once executed, the malicious code can perform actions such as stealing sensitive data, installing additional malware, modifying system configurations, or creating backdoors for persistent access. The vulnerability's impact is particularly concerning given Acrobat Reader's widespread deployment across enterprise environments where users frequently open PDF documents from untrusted sources.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-3013 should prioritize immediate software updates to the latest versions of Adobe Acrobat Reader, as Adobe has released patches addressing this specific vulnerability. Organizations should implement network-based controls including firewall rules that restrict outbound connections to suspicious domains and implement application whitelisting policies to prevent unauthorized DLL loading. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1106 for execution through legitimate user processes, emphasizing the need for monitoring and detection of unusual DLL loading activities. Additional defensive measures include implementing least privilege principles for Acrobat Reader usage, regularly scanning for malicious files in user directories, and conducting security awareness training to reduce the risk of social engineering attacks. System administrators should also consider deploying endpoint protection solutions with behavioral monitoring capabilities to detect anomalous DLL loading patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts.