CVE-2025-27164 is a medium-severity security vulnerability classified as an out-of-bounds read (CWE-125) affecting multiple versions of Adobe Acrobat Reader, including 24.001.30225, 20.005.30748, 25.001.20428, and earlier. This vulnerability occurs when the software reads memory outside the bounds of a buffer, which can lead to the disclosure of sensitive information stored in adjacent memory regions. Such information leakage can aid attackers in bypassing memory protection mechanisms like Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR), which randomizes memory addresses to prevent exploitation. The attack vector requires local access with user interaction, specifically the opening of a crafted malicious PDF file by the victim. The vulnerability does not allow code execution or modification of data but compromises confidentiality by exposing sensitive memory contents. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 5.5 reflects the medium severity, with the vector indicating local attack vector (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), user interaction required (UI:R), unchanged scope (S:U), high confidentiality impact (C:H), and no impact on integrity (I:N) or availability (A:N). Currently, there are no known exploits in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet. However, given Adobe Acrobat Reader's widespread use globally, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to users who open untrusted PDF files.

The primary impact of CVE-2025-27164 is the potential disclosure of sensitive information from the memory space of Adobe Acrobat Reader processes. This can include cryptographic keys, user credentials, or other confidential data residing in memory, which attackers can leverage to further compromise systems or escalate privileges. By bypassing ASLR, attackers can improve the reliability of subsequent exploits, potentially leading to more severe attacks such as remote code execution. Although this vulnerability does not directly affect system integrity or availability, the confidentiality breach can have serious consequences, especially in environments handling sensitive or classified information. Organizations worldwide that rely on Adobe Acrobat Reader for document handling are at risk, particularly those in sectors like finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure. The requirement for user interaction limits the attack scope but does not eliminate risk, as phishing or social engineering can be used to trick users into opening malicious PDFs.

To mitigate CVE-2025-27164, organizations should implement the following specific measures: 1) Monitor Adobe’s official channels for patches and apply updates promptly once available to affected Acrobat Reader versions. 2) Enforce strict email and file filtering policies to block or quarantine suspicious PDF attachments from untrusted sources. 3) Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected PDF files, emphasizing caution with attachments from unknown senders. 4) Utilize application whitelisting or sandboxing technologies to isolate Acrobat Reader processes, limiting the impact of potential memory disclosure. 5) Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of identifying anomalous behaviors related to PDF processing or memory access. 6) Consider disabling JavaScript and other potentially exploitable features within Acrobat Reader to reduce attack surface. 7) Implement network segmentation to restrict access to sensitive systems in case of compromise. These targeted actions go beyond generic advice by focusing on controlling the attack vector and limiting exposure until patches are available.