Adobe posts Reader, Acrobat patches
updated 09:30 am EST, Wed January 13, 2010
Updates fix exploits, test new auto delivery
As promised, Adobe has posted a series of updates for Reader and Acrobat, bringing the latest versions of both programs up to v9.3. Users of earlier editions can alternately choose v8.2 patches. Intel and PowerPC downloads are available for Reader.
The updates together tackle eight security vulnerabilities, including six described as critical. One has been in real-world use by hackers since November, but was only acknowledged by Adobe in December, which then declined to issue a short-term patch because it would disrupt a quarterly schedule. All of the six critical flaws could potentially be used to assume control of a computer.
Adobe is also using the patches to beta test an automatic update system. While the technology has been installed on many computers since October, Adobe has only now enabled it for a small audience. The system could be enabled for all users as soon as April 13th.
