Alerts

We highlight current cyber security threats in New Zealand, and provide guidance on what to do if they affect you.

1:00pm, 12 May 2021

TLP Rating: Clear

Security issue with Adobe Acrobat and Reader

Adobe has released software updates to fix current critical security issues in Adobe Acrobat and Adobe Reader. If you open a malicious PDF file in a vulnerable version of Adobe Acrobat or Adobe Reader an attacker could gain access to your device.

If you use these programs, CERT NZ recommends you immediately update Adobe Acrobat and Adobe Reader.

What's happening

Systems affected

The following software is affected:

  • Acrobat DC and Acrobat Reader DC
  • Acrobat 2020 and Acrobat Reader 2020
  • Acrobat 2017 and Acrobat Reader 2017

What this means

If you open a malicious PDF file in a vulnerable version of Adobe Acrobat or Adobe Reader an attacker could gain access to your device.

What to look for

How to tell if you're at risk

You are at risk if you use Adobe Acrobat or Adobe Reader and haven’t updated to the latest version.

What to do

Prevention

CERT NZ recommends you apply the latest software updates to Adobe Acrobat and Adobe Reader. 

To update to the latest version, open Adobe Acrobat or Adobe Reader and choose:

Help > Check for Updates

This will update to the latest version automatically.

More information

Adobe’s Security Bulletin APSB21-29 External Link

If you require more information or further support, submit a report on our website or contact us on 0800 CERTNZ.

Report an incident to CERT NZ External Link

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