CVE-2014-8074 in PDF SDK ActiveX
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the SetLogFile method in Foxit.FoxitPDFSDKProCtrl.5 in Foxit PDF SDK ActiveX 2.3 through 5.0.1820 before 5.0.2.924 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long string, related to global variables.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/10/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-8074 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the Foxit PDF SDK ActiveX control version 2.3 through 5.0.1820 before 5.0.2.924. This issue specifically affects the SetLogFile method in the Foxit.FoxitPDFSDKProCtrl.5 component, which is commonly integrated into web applications and desktop software for PDF document handling. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking within the ActiveX control's implementation, creating a pathway for malicious code execution through crafted input strings.
The technical exploitation of this buffer overflow occurs when an attacker supplies an excessively long string to the SetLogFile method, causing the application to write data beyond the allocated memory buffer boundaries. This memory corruption can be leveraged to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially including return addresses, function pointers, or other critical control data structures. The vulnerability's classification as a buffer overflow aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite memory. The specific nature of this flaw places it within the broader category of memory safety issues that have historically led to remote code execution exploits.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-8074 extends beyond simple code execution, as it enables attackers to gain complete control over affected systems running vulnerable versions of Foxit PDF SDK ActiveX components. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous in web environments where ActiveX controls are automatically loaded, as it can be exploited through drive-by downloads or malicious web pages without requiring user interaction beyond visiting compromised sites. The attack surface includes any system with the vulnerable ActiveX control installed, making it a significant concern for enterprise environments where PDF processing is common, particularly in document management systems, email clients, and web applications that utilize Foxit's PDF rendering capabilities.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The primary recommendation involves updating to Foxit PDF SDK ActiveX version 5.0.2.924 or later, which includes proper bounds checking and input validation for the SetLogFile method. Organizations should also implement security measures such as disabling ActiveX controls in web browsers, deploying application whitelisting policies, and using sandboxing techniques to limit the impact of potential exploitation attempts. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving remote code execution and privilege escalation, with the initial access often occurring through web-based attack vectors. Network segmentation and monitoring for unusual file access patterns or memory corruption indicators can help detect exploitation attempts, while regular security assessments should verify that all ActiveX components are properly updated and maintained to prevent similar vulnerabilities from arising in the future.