CVE-2023-44367 is a Use After Free (CWE-416) vulnerability found in Adobe Acrobat Reader, affecting versions 23.006.20360 and earlier, as well as 20.005.30524 and earlier. The vulnerability arises when the software improperly manages memory, allowing an attacker to manipulate freed memory regions. This can lead to arbitrary code execution within the context of the current user. The attack vector requires user interaction, specifically opening a maliciously crafted PDF file designed to trigger the vulnerability. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high severity due to the combination of local attack vector (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), and required user interaction (UI:R). The impact includes full compromise of confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system under the current user’s privileges. Although no public exploits are known at this time, the vulnerability poses a significant risk given Adobe Acrobat Reader’s widespread use globally and in Europe. The flaw can be exploited to deploy malware, steal sensitive information, or disrupt operations. The vulnerability is particularly concerning for environments where users frequently open PDF documents from external or untrusted sources. Adobe has not yet published patches, so organizations must monitor for updates and apply them promptly once available.

European organizations face substantial risk from CVE-2023-44367 due to the widespread use of Adobe Acrobat Reader in business, government, and critical infrastructure sectors. Successful exploitation can lead to arbitrary code execution, enabling attackers to install malware, exfiltrate sensitive data, or disrupt services. This is especially critical for sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government agencies where PDF documents are commonly exchanged and may contain sensitive information. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be leveraged to deliver malicious PDFs. The vulnerability’s impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability can result in data breaches, operational downtime, and reputational damage. Given the high CVSS score and potential for lateral movement within networks, organizations must treat this vulnerability as a priority. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the risk of future exploitation remains high.

1. Monitor Adobe security advisories closely and apply patches immediately once released to remediate CVE-2023-44367. 2. Until patches are available, restrict or block opening PDF files from untrusted or unknown sources using email filtering and endpoint controls. 3. Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing for Adobe Acrobat Reader to limit the impact of potential exploitation. 4. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions with behavior-based detection to identify suspicious activities related to memory corruption or code execution. 5. Educate users on the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious PDF attachments and implement phishing awareness training. 6. Consider alternative PDF readers with a lower attack surface in high-risk environments until patches are applied. 7. Implement network segmentation to limit lateral movement if a compromise occurs. 8. Regularly audit and update software inventories to ensure no vulnerable versions remain in use.