CVE-2017-10948 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 app.execMenuItem 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-4723.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/02/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-10948 represents a critical remote code execution flaw in Foxit Reader version 8.2.1.6871 that demonstrates a classic object validation error pattern. This weakness resides within the app.execMenuItem function where the application fails to properly validate whether an object exists before attempting operations on it, creating a dangerous condition that can be exploited by remote attackers. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-476 which specifically addresses NULL pointer dereferences and improper object validation scenarios. The flaw operates under the principle that applications must validate all input and object references before processing, a fundamental security principle that Foxit Reader failed to implement correctly in this instance.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires user interaction through either visiting a malicious webpage or opening a malicious file, making it a client-side attack vector that leverages social engineering techniques. This characteristic places the vulnerability in the ATT&CK framework under the T1203 technique category, which encompasses exploitation of remote services and client-side attacks. The attack surface is particularly concerning because it allows execution of arbitrary code with the privileges of the current process, effectively giving attackers full control over the victim's system. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple code execution as it can potentially lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistent access through the compromised application.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for organizations relying on Foxit Reader for document processing, as it transforms a legitimate document viewer into a potential attack vector. The fact that exploitation requires user interaction does not diminish the threat level, as modern phishing campaigns and malicious website delivery methods can effectively bypass user awareness. The vulnerability's exploitation under the current process context means that attackers can perform actions that are typically restricted to the application's privileges, potentially allowing them to escalate their access or perform operations that would otherwise be blocked by system security controls. The ZDI-CAN-4723 reference indicates this vulnerability was recognized and tracked by the Zero Day Initiative, highlighting its significance in the cybersecurity community.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-10948 should prioritize immediate patching of Foxit Reader installations to the latest secure versions that address the object validation issue in the app.execMenuItem function. Organizations should implement network-based controls such as web filtering and content inspection to block access to known malicious domains and files that could exploit this vulnerability. Additionally, user education programs should emphasize the dangers of visiting untrusted websites or opening suspicious email attachments, as these are the primary delivery mechanisms for such attacks. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper object handling in software development, reinforcing security best practices that align with the OWASP Top Ten and other industry security standards. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of unauthorized software and reduce the attack surface for similar vulnerabilities.