By Sean Wilcoxson
Adobe is releasing a new version called Reader X. Another name for that might be Adobe ?Bait-for-Hackers?. With the release of this new product which enables users to open PDF files and view them with even more content types, and expanded PDF access to mobile devices.
What also comes with the release of Adobe Reader X and other Acrobat X applications is the susceptibility of hacks and security issues that comes with the ongoing threat of malicious campaigns against programs such as these.
Even the chief security executive for Adobe said that there will be a bull?s-eye on this product once it is released in 30 days.
Adobe is taking the hackers into the sandbox.
To explain, a sandbox in the world of computers is a way of isolating running programs. This security mechanism restricts the ability of untested codes and third party programs to enter and see the network access and the host systems. In other words it makes the world of computers a better place because it plays nice and makes sure your computer isn?t running around the playground kissing every kid and telling about it.
While the sandbox protect mode will not stop attacks, it will at least stem them to a point where they are manageable. Hackers want bragging rights, so the first one to break into Adobe Reader X is a hero, and then it is off and running for them to cause chaos with your information and money.
Hackers can get into this program and exploit it by running the program with the looks and feel of the real thing. So when you put your credit card in to upgrading to full service or when you send money, although you think it is going to a legitimate company, it is really going to some fat over-weight asshole who needs your money to fuel his Twinkie addiction.
Sandbox is another word for isolation chamber.
Applets, which are self-contained programs that run in your operating system, are common in web browsers; they use the mechanism to safely execute untrusted code embedded in web pages. Java is a common one you might be familiar with. When it asks for your permission to run a program, that is an example of a sandbox doing its job.
The one major important job of the sandbox for Adobe and for your system is that is prevents viruses and Trojans from infecting you. If you do not want to get sick and lose all your memory and work that you have done for years on your favorite computer, make sure you have a sandbox application running. A common one is Sandboxie, which is a great tool for isolating the virtual processes in a controlled environment to allow for testing before it is sent out over the web and into your machine.
Adobe against the Hackers
The programmers at Adobe want to make sure that they come out on top over the hackers. A daunting task, but with 13,000 lines of code making it the most popular program to get this much attention, anyone trying to get into this sandbox will be tested to the fullest extent.
If you are downloading the new Adobe and are unsure about whether it is safe or not, remember the days of playing in the sandbox, and you should not have any more worries. The internet playground is a better place with a sandbox in it.