CVE-2009-2997

Heap-based buffer overflow in Adobe Reader and Acrobat 7.x before 7.1.4, 8.x before 8.1.7, and 9.x before 9.2 might allow attackers to execute arbitrary code…

published October 19, 2009

CVSS
—
EPSS
8%
Percentile
94.9
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

⚠️ A heap-based buffer overflow is lurking in Adobe Reader and Acrobat versions before 7.1.4, 8.1.7, and 9.2 — it's like an unguarded buffet where an attacker can load up on whatever they please! 🍽️ Picture a buffet where anyone can come in, take extra food, and even sneak in a few secret ingredients. This vulnerability lets attackers exploit weaknesses in memory management, allowing them to run arbitrary code just like an unwatched chef might inadvertently follow a bad recipe. If left unchecked, an attacker could potentially gain control of the application and execute malicious code. This could lead to data breaches, system compromises, or even spreading malware throughout the network, leaving your defenses in shambles!

Put simply

Picture a buffet where anyone can come in, take extra food, and even sneak in a few secret ingredients. This vulnerability lets attackers exploit weaknesses in memory management, allowing them to run arbitrary code just like an unwatched chef might inadvertently follow a bad recipe. This vulnerability arises from improper handling of memory allocation, causing a buffer overflow. It allows attackers to manipulate the heap memory used by Adobe Reader and Acrobat, leading to arbitrary code execution.

What to do

If left unchecked, an attacker could potentially gain control of the application and execute malicious code. This could lead to data breaches, system compromises, or even spreading malware throughout the network, leaving your defenses in shambles! To prevent exploitation, upgrade Adobe Reader and Acrobat to the latest versions: 7.1.4, 8.1.7, or 9.2. Additionally, ensure proper security practices, like restricting access to sensitive files and regularly auditing installed software. You've got this! Stay proactive and secure your systems to keep those pesky intruders at bay! 🛡️

The record
Technical detail
CVSS
Not scored
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.08303 · 94.9th percentile
Published
2009-10-19T22:00Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 19 OCT 22:00Z
    Heap-based buffer overflow in Adobe Reader and Acrobat 7.x before 7.1.4, 8.x before 8.1.7, and 9.x before 9.2 might allow attackers to execute arbitrary code…
    cvelistv5