Adobe Reader Security Update

Adobe has released security updates for Adobe Reader and Acrobat XI (11.0.04) for Windows.  These updates address a regression that occurred in version 11.0.04 affecting Javascript security controls. 

Adobe Reader and Acrobat X (10.1.8) and earlier versions for Windows are not affected, and all versions of Adobe Reader and Acrobat for Macintosh are also not affected by this vulnerability.

Release date: October 8, 2013
Vulnerability identifier: APSB13-25
CVE number: CVE-2013-5325
Platform: Windows

Update or Complete Download

Update checks can be manually activated by choosing Help > Check for Updates.

• Adobe Reader XI (11.0.05) for Windows is available here: http://www.adobe.com/support/downloads/product.jsp?product=10&platform=Windows.

Note: UNcheck any pre-checked additional options presented with the update. They are not part of the software update and are completely optional.

Enable "Protected View"

Due to frequent vulnerabilities, it is recommended that Windows users of Adobe Reader and Acrobat ensure that Protected View is enabled.  Neither the Protected Mode or Protected View option is available for Macintosh users.

To enable this setting, do the following:

• Click Edit > Preferences > Security (Enhanced) menu. 
• Change the "Off" setting to "All Files".
• Ensure the "Enable Enhanced Security" box is checked. 

Image via Sophos Naked Security Blog

If you are looking for a replacement for Adobe Reader, consider Replacing Adobe Reader with Sumatra PDF.

References

• PSIRT Blog
• Release Notes | Acrobat, Reader
• Security Bulletin
• System Requirements

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