CVE-2017-12892 in PDF
Summary
by MITRE
Foxit PDF Compressor installers from versions from 7.0.0.183 to 7.7.2.10 contain a DLL preloading vulnerability, wherein it is possible for the installer to load a malicious DLL located in the current working directory of the installer.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/07/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-12892 represents a critical DLL preloading flaw within Foxit PDF Compressor installer versions ranging from 7.0.0.183 through 7.7.2.10. This vulnerability falls under the broader category of insecure library loading practices that have been extensively documented in cybersecurity frameworks. The flaw stems from the installer's improper handling of dynamic link library resolution, specifically failing to explicitly specify the full path for required DLLs during the loading process. This behavior creates an exploitable condition where an attacker can place a malicious DLL with the same name as a legitimate dependency in the same directory as the installer, causing the system to load the malicious code instead of the intended legitimate library.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-426, which describes the insecure loading of dynamic libraries, and demonstrates how insufficient input validation and improper library resolution can lead to arbitrary code execution. When the vulnerable Foxit installer executes, it searches for required DLLs in the current working directory before checking system directories, creating a window of opportunity for attackers to place malicious payloads. This attack vector operates under the premise that the installer runs with sufficient privileges to execute the malicious code, potentially leading to privilege escalation and system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects the installation process itself, meaning that successful exploitation could occur even before the target system has a chance to implement standard security controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a potential pathway for persistent system compromise. The attack requires minimal user interaction beyond downloading and executing the installer, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users may not be security-aware. According to ATT&CK framework techniques, this vulnerability maps to T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely on Foxit PDF Compressor for document processing, potentially exposing them to supply chain attacks where malicious actors compromise the installer distribution channels. Organizations with strict security policies may find that this vulnerability undermines their defenses, as the exploitation can occur during the legitimate installation process without triggering typical security alerts.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-12892 primarily involve immediate patching of the affected Foxit PDF Compressor versions, as the vendor has released updates that address the DLL preloading issue through proper library path resolution. Organizations should implement strict access controls to prevent unauthorized DLL placement in installer directories and consider using application whitelisting solutions to restrict execution of unauthorized binaries. Network-based mitigations include monitoring for suspicious installer execution patterns and implementing security controls that prevent execution of installers from untrusted sources. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of supply chain security practices, where organizations should verify the integrity of all installation packages through checksum validation and digital signatures. System administrators should conduct regular audits of installed software to identify and remediate other potentially vulnerable applications that may exhibit similar DLL preloading behaviors.