CVE-2017-3028 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 exploitable memory corruption vulnerability in the image conversion module, related to processing of TIFF files. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/28/2022
Adobe Acrobat Reader contains a critical memory corruption vulnerability in its image conversion module that specifically affects TIFF file processing. This vulnerability exists in multiple version ranges including 11.0.19 and earlier, 15.006.30280 and earlier, and 15.023.20070 and earlier versions of the software. The flaw occurs when the application processes specially crafted TIFF image files, leading to improper memory handling that can result in arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability represents a classic buffer overflow condition where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite critical memory locations during image conversion operations.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which covers heap-based buffer overflow scenarios. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious TIFF files that trigger the vulnerable code path during image rendering or conversion processes within Acrobat Reader. The memory corruption occurs when the application fails to properly validate the size and structure of TIFF image data, allowing attackers to manipulate memory pointers and execute arbitrary instructions with the privileges of the affected user.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to enterprise environments where Acrobat Reader is commonly deployed for document viewing and sharing. The exploit requires minimal user interaction beyond opening a malicious TIFF file, making it particularly dangerous in phishing campaigns or targeted attacks. The vulnerability enables attackers to gain arbitrary code execution capabilities, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, or lateral movement within network environments. Organizations running affected versions of Acrobat Reader face elevated risk of successful exploitation, especially in environments where users regularly open documents from untrusted sources.
The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond individual user systems to encompass broader enterprise security postures. Security professionals should consider this weakness in relation to ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, as attackers may leverage the arbitrary code execution capability to establish persistent access or deploy additional malware. Mitigation strategies should include immediate deployment of vendor patches, implementation of application whitelisting policies, and network segmentation to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation. Organizations should also consider disabling TIFF file processing in Acrobat Reader where possible, and implement robust email filtering and endpoint protection measures to prevent delivery of malicious TIFF files to user systems. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining current software versions and implementing comprehensive vulnerability management processes to address similar issues in other applications and operating system components.