CVE-2017-14694 in Foxit
Summary
by MITRE
Foxit Reader 8.3.2.25013 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service via a crafted .pdf file, related to "Data from Faulting Address controls Code Flow starting at tiptsf!CPenInputPanel::FinalRelease+0x000000000000002f."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/14/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-14694 represents a critical code execution flaw within Foxit Reader version 8.3.2.25013 that stems from improper handling of maliciously crafted pdf files. This issue manifests through a specific memory corruption pattern where data from a faulting address directly influences the code flow within the tiptsf module, specifically within the CPenInputPanel::FinalRelease function at offset 0x2f. The vulnerability operates at the intersection of buffer overflow and code injection attack vectors, creating a pathway for adversaries to manipulate program execution flow and potentially gain full system control. The affected component tiptsf.dll is part of the touch input services functionality that Foxit Reader integrates for pen-based input support, making this attack surface particularly concerning given the widespread use of pdf readers in enterprise environments. The flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with heap-based buffer overflow conditions where malicious input data can overwrite critical memory structures, leading to arbitrary code execution or system crashes.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires attackers to craft a specially designed pdf document that triggers the specific code path within the CPenInputPanel::FinalRelease method. When Foxit Reader processes this malicious file, the faulting address contains data that influences the execution flow, effectively allowing attackers to redirect program control to malicious code locations within the process memory space. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of Stack-based Buffer Overflow and also aligns with CWE-787 Out-of-bounds Write patterns, as the malicious input data overflows into adjacent memory regions that control program execution. The attack vector operates through the typical exploitation chain where an attacker delivers a malicious pdf file through phishing campaigns, compromised websites, or other delivery mechanisms. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it requires no user interaction beyond opening the malicious document, making it particularly dangerous in targeted attack scenarios. The specific offset 0x2f in the FinalRelease function indicates this is a precise memory corruption attack that leverages the exact location of the vulnerable code to maximize exploitation effectiveness.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-14694 extends beyond simple denial of service to encompass full system compromise capabilities that align with ATT&CK technique T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1106 Execution through API calls. Organizations running Foxit Reader 8.3.2.25013 are exposed to significant risk as attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the affected user. The vulnerability affects not only individual workstations but also enterprise environments where pdf documents are frequently exchanged, creating potential lateral movement opportunities through compromised user sessions. The attack surface is particularly concerning because pdf readers are commonly used for business-critical documents, making successful exploitation potentially devastating. The vulnerability's persistence across multiple operating systems within the Windows platform ecosystem means that organizations cannot rely on OS-level protections alone to prevent exploitation. Additionally, the vulnerability's nature makes it difficult to detect through traditional signature-based security solutions, as the malicious code execution occurs within legitimate application processes.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including the deployment of security patches provided by Foxit Corporation, which address the specific memory corruption issue in the tiptsf.dll module. System administrators should consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of pdf readers from untrusted sources, particularly in high-risk environments such as financial institutions or government agencies. Network-based security controls should be enhanced to scan pdf files for known malicious patterns and suspicious file characteristics that may indicate the presence of exploit code. The vulnerability's characteristics suggest that organizations should also consider implementing process isolation techniques where pdf processing occurs in restricted environments that limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments should include verification of installed Foxit Reader versions to ensure that all systems are patched against this vulnerability. The mitigation approach should also incorporate user education programs to reduce the risk of social engineering attacks that deliver malicious pdf files, as these attacks often exploit user trust in legitimate document formats. Additionally, organizations should maintain current threat intelligence feeds to monitor for exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability.