CVE-2017-15770 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 .xps file, related to "Data from Faulting Address controls subsequent Write Address starting at frdvpr_drv!DrvQueryDriverInfo+0x000000000002c851."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/19/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-15770 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw in Foxit Reader version 8.3.2.25013 that enables remote code execution and denial of service attacks through maliciously crafted XPS files. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the document processing pipeline, specifically affecting the frdvpr_drv!DrvQueryDriverInfo function where faulting address data directly influences subsequent write operations. The issue manifests when the application processes malformed XPS documents that contain specially constructed data structures designed to trigger memory corruption during rendering operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a classic stack-based buffer overflow scenario where attacker-controlled data from a faulting address is used to manipulate memory layout and control program execution flow. The affected function frdvpr_drv!DrvQueryDriverInfo at offset 0x000000000002c851 demonstrates a dangerous pattern where input validation fails to properly bounds-check data received from external sources, allowing attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations with malicious payloads. This flaw aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a significant security gap in the application's memory management practices. The vulnerability operates at a low level within the Windows driver framework, making it particularly dangerous as it can potentially bypass modern exploit mitigations such as DEP and ASLR.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to organizations relying on Foxit Reader for document processing, as it can be exploited through simple email attachments or web-based document delivery mechanisms. Attackers can craft XPS files that, when opened by an unpatched version of Foxit Reader, will trigger the buffer overflow and allow for arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected user. The denial of service aspect means that even successful exploitation without code execution can render the application unusable, disrupting business operations and potentially enabling persistent attacks through repeated exploitation attempts. This vulnerability affects the broader attack surface documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1203 technique for legitimate program execution, where adversaries leverage trusted applications to execute malicious code.
Organizations should prioritize immediate patching of Foxit Reader installations to address this vulnerability, as no reliable workarounds exist for the underlying memory corruption issue. Security teams should implement network-based detection measures using signature-based IDS/IPS rules targeting the specific faulting address patterns associated with this vulnerability. Additionally, user education regarding the dangers of opening untrusted document files remains crucial, particularly in environments where document sharing occurs frequently. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of robust input validation and proper memory management practices in document processing applications, aligning with industry best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST Cybersecurity Framework. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of potentially vulnerable applications and monitor for unusual file processing activities that might indicate exploitation attempts.