CVE-2018-1180 in Foxit
Summary
by MITRE
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable installations of Foxit Reader 9.0.0.29935. 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 AFSimple_Calculate method. The issue results from the lack of validating the existence of an object prior to performing operations on the object. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code under the context of the current process. Was ZDI-CAN-5491.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/06/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-1180 represents a critical remote code execution flaw affecting Foxit Reader version 9.0.0.29935 and potentially other versions within the same product line. This vulnerability operates under the principle of improper input validation and object handling, creating a pathway for malicious actors to gain unauthorized execution privileges on affected systems. The flaw resides specifically within the AFSimple_Calculate method of the PDF processing engine, which is responsible for handling mathematical calculations within PDF documents. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-476 which describes NULL Pointer Dereference, indicating that the software fails to properly validate object existence before attempting operations on it. The attack vector requires user interaction through either visiting a malicious webpage or opening a specially crafted malicious PDF file, making it a typical example of a user-initiated attack that leverages social engineering tactics.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient object validation within the AFSimple_Calculate method, which processes mathematical expressions embedded within PDF documents. When a malicious PDF file is processed, the method attempts to perform calculations without first verifying that the expected objects exist or are properly initialized. This oversight creates a condition where an attacker can craft a PDF document containing malformed data that, when processed by Foxit Reader, triggers a null pointer dereference. The execution context of this vulnerability allows for arbitrary code execution under the privileges of the currently running Foxit Reader process, which typically runs with the same privileges as the user who initiated the application. This presents a significant risk as it enables attackers to potentially escalate their privileges or execute malicious payloads directly on the victim's system.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-1180 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it creates opportunities for attackers to establish persistent footholds within target environments. The vulnerability's requirement for user interaction makes it particularly dangerous in targeted attacks where social engineering plays a crucial role in successful exploitation. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through standard web browsing or document opening activities, making it a prime target for phishing campaigns or drive-by download attacks. The attack pattern aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 which describes Exploitation for Client Execution, where adversaries leverage vulnerabilities in client applications to execute malicious code. Organizations running affected versions of Foxit Reader face potential data breaches, system compromise, and unauthorized access to sensitive information, as the vulnerability allows for complete system control when successfully exploited.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-1180 should include immediate patching of Foxit Reader installations to the latest available versions that contain fixes for this vulnerability. Organizations should also implement network-based protections such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems that can detect and block malicious PDF content. Additionally, security awareness training should be enhanced to educate users about the risks of opening unexpected PDF files or visiting untrusted websites. The vulnerability's characteristics make it particularly susceptible to defense-in-depth approaches, where multiple layers of protection can significantly reduce the likelihood of successful exploitation. System administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of unauthorized software and monitor for unusual process behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. The remediation process should include thorough vulnerability assessments to identify all potentially affected systems and ensure that the patching process is completed across all endpoints to prevent attackers from targeting the specific version affected by this vulnerability.