CVE-2019-7124 in Acrobat Reader
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions 2019.010.20098 and earlier, 2019.010.20098 and earlier, 2017.011.30127 and earlier version, and 2015.006.30482 and earlier have an out-of-bounds write vulnerability. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution .
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/15/2020
Adobe Acrobat and Reader applications contain a critical out-of-bounds write vulnerability that affects multiple version ranges including 2019.010.20098 and earlier, 2017.011.30127 and earlier, and 2015.006.30482 and earlier. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-787 category for out-of-bounds write conditions, representing a fundamental memory safety issue where the application fails to properly validate array indices or buffer boundaries before writing data. The flaw occurs during the processing of PDF documents, specifically when handling malformed or specially crafted PDF files that trigger improper memory access patterns. When exploited, this vulnerability allows attackers to write data beyond the allocated memory boundaries of the application, creating opportunities for arbitrary code execution within the context of the user running the vulnerable software. The attack vector typically involves tricking users into opening malicious PDF files through social engineering or phishing campaigns, where the crafted content triggers the vulnerable code path during document parsing. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 for Exploitation for Client Execution, where adversaries leverage application vulnerabilities to execute malicious code on target systems. The impact extends beyond simple code execution as the vulnerability can be leveraged for privilege escalation attacks, especially when users have elevated permissions, and can potentially lead to complete system compromise. The vulnerability represents a significant risk in enterprise environments where users frequently open PDF documents from untrusted sources, making it a prime target for advanced persistent threat actors and cybercriminals seeking to establish persistent access to networks. Organizations should prioritize immediate patching of affected versions, implement strict PDF file validation policies, and consider deploying sandboxing solutions to isolate PDF processing activities. The vulnerability demonstrates the ongoing challenges in PDF processing security and the critical importance of regular software updates and comprehensive vulnerability management programs to protect against such sophisticated exploitation techniques.