CVE-2021-21017: Acrobat Reader DC Heap-based Buffer Overflow Vulnerability Could Lead To Arbitrary Code Execution
Acrobat Reader DC versions versions 2020.013.20074 (and earlier), 2020.001.30018 (and earlier) and 2017.011.30188 (and earlier) are affected by a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability. An unauthenticated attacker could leverage this vulnerability to achieve arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user. Exploitation of this issue requires user interaction in that a victim must open a malicious file.
Other sources
Acrobat Acrobat and Reader contain a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability that could allow an unauthenticated attacker to achieve code execution in the context of the current user.
— CISA
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Compensating control
Prevent delivery or direct opening of potentially malicious PDF files: configure your email gateway/secure web gateway to block, quarantine, or sandbox PDF attachments from external or untrusted senders and enable attachment disarm/sandboxing for PDFs. Additionally, apply endpoint controls to restrict automatic opening of downloaded PDF files.
- Operational
Warn and train users not to open unexpected or untrusted PDF files or links. Note: exploitation requires user interaction (victim opening a malicious file), so instruct users to verify sender and scan attachments before opening.
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the vulnerability ID for this Adobe Acrobat and Reader vulnerability?
The vulnerability ID for this Adobe Acrobat and Reader vulnerability is CVE-2021-21017.
Which versions of Adobe Acrobat and Reader are affected by this vulnerability?
Acrobat Reader DC versions 2020.013.20074 (and earlier), 2020.001.30018 (and earlier), and 2017.011.30188 (and earlier) are affected by this vulnerability.
What is the severity rating of CVE-2021-21017?
The severity rating of CVE-2021-21017 is 8.8 (high).
How can an attacker exploit this vulnerability?
An unauthenticated attacker could leverage this vulnerability to achieve arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user.
Where can I find more information about this vulnerability?
You can find more information about this vulnerability at the following link: [Adobe Security Bulletin APSB21-09](https://helpx.adobe.com/security/products/acrobat/apsb21-09.html).