Ad-free. Influence-free. Powered by consumers.
Skip to Main ContentThe payment for your account couldn't be processed or you've canceled your account with us.
Re-activate
Adobe has issued a security alert for its Reader and Acrobat software: A critical vulnerability in the software is being used by hackers to install malware on computers running Windows, Apple OS, and Linux operating systems, according to the company.
The flaw, called a memory corruption vulnerability, allows hackers to crash computers and then install malicious software. According to Adobe, the software security risk can be found in:
Adobe said that a fix for Version 9 of its Reader software is expected to be released next week, given the vulnerability in that Adobe software "is being actively exploited in the wild in limited, targeted attacks."
Adobe also said its Reader X and Acrobat X software have protected modes that prevent malware from executing properly. But Adobe plans to fix the holes in those programs in the next quarterly security update, scheduled for January 10, 2012.
For more information on protecting your computer from malware, check out Consumer Reports free Guide to online security as well as security software advice and Ratings.
Security Advisory for Adobe Reader and Acrobat [Adobe]
Critical Adobe Reader Zero-day Vulnerability Exploited in the Wild [PC World]
Adobe Warns of Critical Zero-Day Vulnerability in Reader and Acrobat, Possibly Targeting Defense Firms [Security Week]
—Paul Eng
Build & Buy Car Buying Service
Save thousands off MSRP with upfront dealer pricing information and a transparent car buying experience.
Get Ratings on the go and compare
while you shop
