CVE-2013-0107 in Foxit
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in Foxit Advanced PDF Editor 3 before 3.04 might allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted document containing instructions that reconstruct a certain security cookie.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/28/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-0107 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw in Foxit Advanced PDF Editor version 3.03 and earlier. This security weakness resides within the document parsing functionality of the software, specifically when processing crafted PDF files that contain maliciously constructed instructions designed to manipulate memory structures. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management practices during the reconstruction of security cookies within the application's processing pipeline. According to CWE-121, this classification indicates a stack-based buffer overflow condition where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the program stack. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited remotely through malicious PDF documents, eliminating the need for local system access or user interaction beyond opening the document.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the Foxit Advanced PDF Editor attempts to parse a specially crafted document containing instructions that manipulate the security cookie reconstruction process. During normal operation, the application maintains certain security mechanisms to prevent unauthorized code execution, but the buffer overflow allows attackers to overwrite critical stack memory locations including return addresses and control flow information. The attacker can manipulate these overwritten memory locations to redirect program execution to malicious code injected into the buffer overflow area. This technique leverages the standard stack memory layout where local variables and function return addresses are stored contiguously, making it possible to overwrite the return address of a function and redirect execution flow. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 which describes the use of command and scripting interpreters, particularly when malicious code is executed through manipulated program control flow.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system running the vulnerable Foxit Advanced PDF Editor. Once successfully exploited, the malicious code can perform various malicious activities including but not limited to data exfiltration, system reconnaissance, privilege escalation, and installation of additional malware. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely on Foxit Advanced PDF Editor for document processing, particularly in environments where users may encounter untrusted PDF documents from external sources. The remote exploitation capability means that attackers can deliver malicious payloads through email attachments, web downloads, or other remote delivery mechanisms without requiring physical access to the target system. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where PDF documents are frequently shared and processed, as it can serve as a vector for lateral movement and persistent access within network perimeters.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigation strategies to protect against exploitation of CVE-2013-0107. The primary recommendation involves upgrading to Foxit Advanced PDF Editor version 3.04 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the buffer overflow vulnerability. Additionally, network administrators should implement PDF content filtering solutions that can detect and block potentially malicious documents before they reach end-user systems. Security teams should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of unauthorized PDF editors and enforce the use of only trusted versions of the software. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of regular software updates and patch management processes, as well as the need for comprehensive security awareness training to prevent users from opening suspicious PDF documents. Organizations should also consider network segmentation and monitoring solutions to detect unusual PDF processing activities that may indicate exploitation attempts, ensuring that any potential compromise is identified and contained promptly through established incident response procedures.