CVE-2017-14835 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 page method of XFA Layout objects. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of user-supplied data, which can result in a type confusion condition. An attacker can leverage this to execute code in the context of the current process. Was ZDI-CAN-5027.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/16/2019
CVE-2017-14835 represents a critical remote code execution vulnerability affecting Foxit Reader version 8.3.1.21155, demonstrating a classic type confusion flaw that enables attackers to gain arbitrary code execution capabilities. This vulnerability resides within the XFA Layout page method implementation, where insufficient input validation allows malicious data to be processed without proper sanitization. The flaw specifically manifests as a type confusion condition that occurs when the application fails to properly validate user-supplied data during XFA object processing, creating an exploitable path for remote attackers to inject malicious code into the target system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-467, which describes "Use of sizeof() on a Pointer Type" and related type confusion issues in software applications. The vulnerability operates through a sophisticated attack chain that requires user interaction, typically involving the victim visiting a malicious webpage or opening a specially crafted malicious file containing the exploit payload. This requirement for user interaction places the vulnerability in the category of client-side attacks that rely on social engineering tactics to achieve successful exploitation. The attack leverages the application's handling of XFA (XML Forms Architecture) objects, which are used for form processing and layout management within PDF documents, making this particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through normal PDF document interactions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it allows attackers to operate within the security context of the currently running Foxit Reader process, potentially enabling privilege escalation or further system compromise. Attackers can exploit this condition to execute arbitrary commands with the same privileges as the Foxit Reader application, which typically runs with the permissions of the logged-in user. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers can deploy malicious payloads without requiring physical access to the target system, making it particularly attractive for widespread exploitation campaigns. This type of vulnerability directly relates to ATT&CK technique T1203, which describes "Exploitation for Client Execution" and represents a common attack pattern used in targeted campaigns against end-user applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-14835 should prioritize immediate patch deployment from Foxit Corporation, as the vulnerability affects a widely used PDF reader application. Organizations should implement network-based protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems to block access to known malicious domains and file types. Additionally, user education and awareness programs should emphasize the dangers of opening unexpected PDF files or visiting untrusted websites. The vulnerability's nature suggests that implementing strict input validation measures and sandboxing techniques could provide additional protection layers. Security teams should also monitor for indicators of compromise related to this vulnerability, including unusual network connections or process executions that might indicate exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to ensure that all instances of Foxit Reader are properly updated and patched against this and similar vulnerabilities.