CVE-2019-8201 in Acrobat Reader
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Acrobat and Reader versions , 2019.012.20040 and earlier, 2017.011.30148 and earlier, 2017.011.30148 and earlier, 2015.006.30503 and earlier, and 2015.006.30503 and earlier have an out-of-bounds read vulnerability. Successful exploitation could lead to information disclosure .
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/16/2024
Adobe Acrobat and Reader applications contain a critical out-of-bounds read vulnerability that affects multiple version ranges including 2019.012.20040 and earlier, 2017.011.30148 and earlier, and 2015.006.30503 and earlier. This vulnerability resides in the PDF parsing functionality where the software fails to properly validate array indices when processing maliciously crafted PDF documents. The flaw manifests when the application attempts to read memory locations beyond the allocated buffer boundaries during PDF content rendering, particularly when handling embedded objects or complex graphics elements. The out-of-bounds read condition occurs in the parsing logic that processes PDF dictionaries and arrays, where insufficient bounds checking allows an attacker to manipulate memory access patterns through crafted PDF files. This vulnerability is classified as a CWE-129 weakness, specifically an Improper Validation of Array Index, which represents a fundamental flaw in input validation mechanisms. The security implications are significant as successful exploitation can result in information disclosure, where attackers can potentially read sensitive memory contents including credentials, system information, or other confidential data that may be stored in adjacent memory regions. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be triggered through simple PDF file manipulation without requiring user interaction beyond opening the malicious document, making it a prime candidate for drive-by download attacks and social engineering campaigns. From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability represents a critical risk to organizations that process or distribute PDF documents, as it allows for remote code execution through information disclosure attacks that could lead to privilege escalation or further system compromise. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript and T1068 Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, as attackers can leverage the information disclosure to gain deeper system access. Organizations should prioritize patching all affected versions to prevent exploitation, while implementing additional security controls such as PDF sandboxing, network-based intrusion detection systems, and strict file validation policies. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of robust input validation and memory safety practices in document processing applications, aligning with industry standards that emphasize defensive programming techniques to prevent buffer overflow and out-of-bounds access conditions. Regular security assessments and vulnerability management programs should include specific checks for PDF processing components to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in other software applications.