CVE-2017-10958 in Foxit
Summary
by MITRE
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable installations of Foxit Reader 8.3.1.21155. 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 value attribute of Field objects. 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-4980.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/16/2019
CVE-2017-10958 represents a critical remote code execution vulnerability affecting Foxit Reader version 8.3.1.21155, classified under CWE-476 as NULL Pointer Dereference, which operates within the broader context of software security flaws that enable attackers to gain unauthorized system access. This vulnerability exists in the handling of Field objects within the PDF processing engine, specifically within the value attribute processing mechanism where the application fails to validate object existence before performing operations on it. The flaw constitutes a classic use-after-free or null pointer dereference condition that can be exploited through malicious PDF content, making it particularly dangerous given the widespread use of PDF readers in enterprise and consumer environments.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires a user to interact with malicious content, either by visiting a compromised webpage that loads a malicious PDF or by directly opening a crafted PDF file. This user interaction requirement places the vulnerability in the category of client-side attacks that leverage social engineering tactics to deliver malicious payloads, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1203 for Exploitation for Client Execution. The vulnerability's root cause stems from inadequate input validation and object lifecycle management within the Foxit Reader application, where the Field object's value attribute processing does not properly verify that referenced objects exist before attempting to access their properties or methods.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-10958 extends beyond simple code execution, as successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the currently running Foxit Reader process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This privilege escalation capability means that attackers can bypass typical security controls and gain access to sensitive data, install additional malware, or establish persistent backdoors within the victim's environment. The vulnerability's exploitation can result in data theft, system infiltration, and lateral movement within networks where Foxit Reader is commonly deployed, making it particularly concerning for organizations that rely heavily on PDF document processing.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of Foxit Reader installations to version 8.3.2 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the object validation issues. Organizations should also implement network-based controls such as web proxies that scan and filter PDF content before delivery to users, along with endpoint protection measures that monitor for suspicious PDF processing activities. Additionally, user education and awareness programs should emphasize the importance of avoiding untrusted PDF content and implementing strict access controls for PDF handling applications, which aligns with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-144 and ISO/IEC 27001 standards for information security management. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper object validation and memory management in software applications, particularly those handling untrusted input data.