CVE-2025-24431 is a vulnerability classified as an out-of-bounds read (CWE-125) affecting Adobe Acrobat Reader versions 24.001.30225, 20.005.30748, 25.001.20428, and earlier. This flaw allows an attacker to read memory outside the intended buffer boundaries when processing specially crafted PDF files. By exploiting this vulnerability, an attacker can potentially disclose sensitive information stored in memory, such as pointers or other data that could aid in bypassing security mitigations like Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR). The attack vector requires the victim to open a malicious PDF file, meaning user interaction is mandatory. The vulnerability does not directly allow code execution or denial of service but can be leveraged as a stepping stone for more advanced attacks. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 5.5, reflecting a medium severity due to local attack vector (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), required user interaction (UI:R), unchanged scope (S:U), high confidentiality impact (C:H), and no impact on integrity or availability (I:N/A:N). No patches or exploits are currently publicly known, but the vulnerability is officially published and reserved as of early 2025.

The primary impact of CVE-2025-24431 is the potential disclosure of sensitive memory contents, which can undermine the confidentiality of information processed by Acrobat Reader. This can facilitate further attacks, such as bypassing ASLR, increasing the likelihood of successful exploitation of other vulnerabilities. Organizations handling sensitive documents or intellectual property using affected Acrobat Reader versions are at risk of data leakage. While the vulnerability does not directly compromise system integrity or availability, the information gained can be used to escalate privileges or execute arbitrary code in chained attacks. The requirement for user interaction limits the attack scope to targeted phishing or social engineering campaigns. However, given the widespread use of Acrobat Reader globally, the potential exposure is significant, especially in sectors like government, finance, legal, and critical infrastructure where PDF documents are prevalent.

1. Monitor Adobe’s official channels for security updates and apply patches promptly once released for the affected Acrobat Reader versions. 2. Until patches are available, consider disabling or restricting the use of Acrobat Reader for opening untrusted or unsolicited PDF files, especially in high-risk environments. 3. Implement email filtering and sandboxing solutions to detect and block malicious PDF attachments. 4. Educate users about the risks of opening unexpected or suspicious PDF files and encourage verification of file sources. 5. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to monitor for unusual Acrobat Reader behaviors indicative of exploitation attempts. 6. Consider using alternative PDF readers with a smaller attack surface or enhanced security features in sensitive environments. 7. Enforce strict application whitelisting and privilege restrictions to limit the impact of any potential exploitation.