By default, Adobe Reader and Adobe Acrobat integrate into Internet Explorer and cause PDF files to be opened automatically by the browser. This confirmation-less rendering of PDF files have enabled attackers to automatically deliver Adobe Reader and Acrobat exploits via the Web. The end result - surreptitious malware downloads to your computer.
Fortunately, there is an easy way to prevent Adobe Reader and Acrobat from automatically rendering PDF files in your browser. Make this one small tweak, and henceforth you'll be notified if a website tries to open a PDF in your browser.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 5 minutes
Here's How:
- Open Adobe Reader or Adobe Acrobat.
- Click Edit and choose Preferences.
- From the left pane, select Internet.
- Uncheck the box Display PDF in browser.
- Click OK and close the program.