CVE-2018-12858 in Acrobat Reader
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2018.011.20063 and earlier, 2017.011.30102 and earlier, and 2015.006.30452 and earlier have a type confusion vulnerability. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/08/2024
Adobe Acrobat and Reader contain a type confusion vulnerability that affects multiple versions across different release cycles. This vulnerability stems from improper handling of object types during memory operations, creating conditions where the application incorrectly interprets data types leading to unpredictable behavior. The flaw exists in the processing of maliciously crafted pdf documents that trigger memory corruption when the software attempts to handle objects with conflicting type information. Such type confusion scenarios can occur when the application fails to properly validate or distinguish between different object types during parsing operations, particularly in complex document structures involving embedded objects or JavaScript elements.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate memory layout and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the targeted user. When a malicious pdf document is opened, the vulnerable code path processes objects without proper type validation, enabling attackers to craft input that causes the application to treat memory locations as different data types than intended. This memory corruption can lead to stack overflows, heap corruption, or other exploitable conditions that provide attackers with control over the execution flow. The vulnerability specifically impacts the parsing and rendering components of Adobe Reader, where the application's object model handling fails to maintain proper type boundaries during complex document processing operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential full system compromise when users open malicious documents. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to bypass security controls, escalate privileges, and establish persistent access to affected systems. The vulnerability's widespread impact across multiple versions demonstrates the persistence of type confusion flaws in complex software applications, particularly those handling untrusted input through document parsing engines. Security researchers have identified this as a critical vulnerability that can be exploited remotely through web-based attacks or through social engineering campaigns targeting end users who open malicious pdf attachments.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching of affected Adobe Reader and Acrobat versions, implementing application whitelisting policies, and deploying sandboxing technologies to contain potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider network-based protections such as pdf content filtering and email scanning to prevent malicious documents from reaching end users. The vulnerability aligns with common weakness enumeration CWE-466 which describes "Use of Incorrectly Specified Variable Type" and relates to attack techniques in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1203 "Exploitation for Client Execution" and T1059 "Command and Scripting Interpreter." Security teams should prioritize updating to patched versions and monitor for exploitation attempts through network intrusion detection systems that can identify suspicious pdf processing behavior or anomalous memory access patterns.