External risk intelligence

Adobe Reader and Acrobat Code Execution Vulnerability.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2013-2729

An integer overflow in Adobe Reader and Acrobat allows attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to data and system compromise. The business risk is high due to the ability for unauthorized code execution and system control.

1Halo Surface Signal

Integer Overflow

Adobe Acrobat

9.0 to before 9.5.510.0 to before 10.1.711.0 to before 11.0.0310116.05.96.4

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2013-2729

This vulnerability affects Adobe Reader and Acrobat, which are client-side desktop applications. They are typically installed on individual user workstations rather than acting as internet-facing services, gateways, or APIs. The software is not designed to be exposed to the public internet in a standard deployment pattern.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

Certain versions of Adobe Reader and Acrobat contain an integer overflow vulnerability. This flaw can allow attackers to execute arbitrary code within the affected systems. The potential impact includes the compromise of organizational data and systems.

  • Vulnerable: Adobe Reader and Acrobat
  • Flaw: Integer overflow vulnerability
  • Impact: Arbitrary code execution, data and system compromise

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

This vulnerability in Adobe Reader and Acrobat allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code. The attack begins with an integer overflow in the software. This can lead to attackers gaining control of affected systems.

  • Exposure condition: Unspecified vectors in application.
  • Attacker starting point: Network access.
  • Trigger and result: Code execution.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The attack can be performed over the network without requiring any user interaction. Organizations using vulnerable versions of Adobe Reader and Acrobat face significant risk due to the potential for remote code execution, impacting data integrity, confidentiality, and system availability.

  • Attackers with low skill can exploit it.
  • No special access or conditions are required.
  • Business risk is high; treat as urgent.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability in Adobe Reader and Acrobat could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code. Organizations should prioritize understanding their exposure and implementing vendor-provided solutions to mitigate risk. This incident highlights the importance of maintaining updated software and validating security controls.

  • Identify Adobe Reader and Acrobat installations.
  • Reduce exposure by disabling features or isolating systems.
  • Apply vendor updates and confirm remediation.
  • Monitor for related malicious activity.

Frequently asked questions

What is Adobe Acrobat Reader?

Adobe Acrobat Reader is a widely used software application for viewing, printing, and interacting with PDF (Portable Document Format) files. It is commonly installed on personal computers and mobile devices for accessing documents, forms, and other PDF-based content.

What kind of weakness does CVE-2013-2729 describe?

CVE-2013-2729 describes an integer overflow vulnerability. This type of weakness occurs when a program attempts to store a numerical value larger than its allocated memory space, which can lead to unexpected behavior and potentially allow an attacker to execute malicious code.

What does an attacker need to do to trigger this vulnerability?

The specific vectors for triggering this vulnerability are not detailed, but it is known that the attack can be initiated via unspecified vectors. Importantly, the vulnerability does not require any special access or conditions to be exploited, and it can be initiated over the network.

Who should be concerned about CVE-2013-2729?

Organizations using affected versions of Adobe Reader and Acrobat should be concerned. Since this vulnerability is classified as external, meaning it can be exploited over the network, it poses a risk to systems that may be accessible from the internet.

What are the first steps to address this threat?

The initial steps involve identifying all installations of Adobe Reader and Acrobat within your organization. Subsequently, it is crucial to apply any vendor-provided updates or patches to mitigate the risk. Monitoring for any unusual activity related to these applications is also recommended.

References