CVE-2017-10946 in Foxit
Summary
by MITRE
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable installations of Foxit Reader 8.2.1.6871. User interaction is required to exploit this vulnerability in that the target must visit a malicious page or open a malicious file. The specific flaw exists within the setItem function. The issue results from the lack of validating the existence of an object prior to performing operations on the object. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code under the context of the current process. Was ZDI-CAN-4721.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/21/2021
CVE-2017-10946 represents a critical remote code execution vulnerability affecting Foxit Reader version 8.2.1.6871 that demonstrates a classic object-oriented programming flaw categorized under CWE-476. This vulnerability resides within the setItem function of the PDF reader's JavaScript engine, where insufficient input validation permits attackers to manipulate object references without proper existence verification. The flaw operates on the fundamental principle that objects are accessed without proper null pointer checks, creating an exploitable condition where malicious code can be executed within the context of the running process. The vulnerability requires user interaction through either visiting a malicious webpage or opening a specially crafted PDF file, making it particularly dangerous in phishing campaigns and social engineering attacks. This issue aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 by enabling adversaries to gain remote code execution capabilities through legitimate system processes. The root cause stems from improper memory management practices where the application fails to validate object references before performing operations, allowing attackers to manipulate the execution flow through crafted input data. The exploitation process typically involves constructing malicious PDF content that triggers the vulnerable setItem function, leveraging the lack of proper object validation to execute arbitrary code. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and confidentiality of user data, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise. The security implications extend beyond simple code execution to encompass potential data exfiltration, persistence mechanisms, and privilege escalation within the victim's environment. Organizations utilizing Foxit Reader version 8.2.1.6871 should immediately implement mitigations including disabling JavaScript execution, implementing web application firewalls, and deploying network segmentation controls. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper input validation and object-oriented security practices, as outlined in secure coding guidelines and standards such as those provided by the Open Web Application Security Project. System administrators should prioritize patch management and application hardening measures to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability, as it represents a significant risk to enterprise security infrastructure and user data protection. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw underscores the critical need for continuous security assessments and proactive threat hunting activities within organizational networks.