CVE-2018-10303 in Foxit Reader
Summary
by MITRE
A use-after-free in Foxit Reader before 9.1 and PhantomPDF before 9.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code, aka iDefense ID V-y0nqfutlf3.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/03/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-10303 represents a critical use-after-free flaw affecting Foxit Reader versions prior to 9.1 and PhantomPDF versions before 9.1. This type of vulnerability occurs when a program continues to reference memory locations after they have been freed, creating opportunities for malicious actors to manipulate memory contents and potentially execute arbitrary code. The flaw was particularly concerning because it could be exploited remotely, meaning attackers did not need physical access to the target system to carry out successful attacks. The vulnerability was assigned the iDefense ID V-y0nqfutlf3, indicating its severity and the attention it received from security researchers. This issue falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-416, which specifically addresses the use of freed memory, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter execution through malicious PDF files.
The technical implementation of this use-after-free vulnerability involves the improper handling of memory management during PDF document processing within the affected software applications. When Foxit Reader or PhantomPDF processes certain malformed PDF files, the application fails to properly validate memory references, allowing attackers to craft malicious PDF documents that trigger the vulnerable code path. The attack typically begins with the delivery of a specially crafted PDF file that, when opened by an affected version, causes the application to free a memory block while still maintaining references to it. Attackers can then manipulate the freed memory space to inject and execute malicious code with the privileges of the targeted user. This vulnerability demonstrates how PDF processing engines can become attack vectors due to insufficient input validation and memory management practices.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-10303 extends beyond simple code execution, as it enables attackers to establish persistent access to compromised systems. Remote code execution vulnerabilities of this nature are particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users frequently open PDF documents from untrusted sources. The vulnerability affects a wide range of users including those in government, financial services, healthcare, and other sectors where PDF documents are commonly exchanged. Successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and the installation of additional malware. The remote nature of the attack means that organizations cannot rely solely on network segmentation or user education as protective measures, since attackers can exploit this vulnerability without requiring any interaction from the user beyond opening the malicious document. This vulnerability directly impacts the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information systems as defined by the CIA triad.
Organizations should immediately update to Foxit Reader 9.1 or later versions and PhantomPDF 9.1 or later to remediate this vulnerability. Security administrators should implement network-based intrusion detection systems that can identify and block malicious PDF files, particularly those containing known exploit patterns. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict the execution of PDF viewers from untrusted sources. Regular security assessments should include verification of software versions and patch compliance for all PDF processing applications. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and demonstrates how third-party software components can introduce significant security risks. Organizations should also consider deploying sandboxing technologies when processing untrusted PDF documents, as this provides an additional layer of protection against exploitation attempts. The incident underscores the necessity of comprehensive vulnerability management programs that include regular security assessments and rapid response procedures for critical vulnerabilities.