Adobe readies 'sandboxing' tools for Reader

Adobe Reader Protected Mode runs files in an isolated environment

Adobe plans to add an extra layer of security to its embattled Reader application, instituting a 'protected mode' into upcoming versions of the PDF viewer.

Also known as 'sandboxing', the protected mode runs files in an isolated environment, preventing possible security exploits and attacks from accessing other areas of the system.

Adobe likened the protected mode to sandboxing used in Google Chrome and Microsoft Office 2010.

The company hopes that the move will help to stop the type of attacks that have targeted Reader lately.

"Adobe Reader Protected Mode represents an exciting new advance in attack mitigation," wrote Brad Arkin, Adobe's director of product security and privacy, in a blog post.

"Even if an exploitable security vulnerability is found by an attacker, Adobe Reader Protected Mode will help prevent the attacker from writing files, changing registry keys or installing malware on potential victims' computers."