CVE-2018-14248 in Foxit
Summary
by MITRE
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable installations of Foxit Reader 9.0.1.1049. 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 exportAsXFDF method. By performing actions in JavaScript, an attacker can trigger a type confusion condition. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code under the context of the current process. Was ZDI-CAN-6011.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/11/2020
CVE-2018-14248 represents a critical type confusion vulnerability affecting Foxit Reader version 9.0.1.1049 that enables remote code execution through carefully crafted JavaScript within the exportAsXFDF method. This vulnerability resides in the PDF processing engine's handling of data types during XFD (XML Forms Data Format) export operations, creating a condition where the application fails to properly validate type information during JavaScript execution. The flaw manifests when the application processes malformed or malicious input through the exportAsXFDF method, allowing an attacker to manipulate memory layout and potentially overwrite critical execution pointers or function tables. This type confusion vulnerability falls under CWE-467, which specifically addresses the use of an incorrect type in programming contexts, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for JavaScript execution within document processing environments. The vulnerability requires user interaction through visiting a malicious webpage or opening a specially crafted PDF file, making it particularly dangerous in phishing campaigns or targeted attacks. Attackers can exploit this by constructing JavaScript code that triggers the exportAsXFDF method with manipulated parameters, causing the application to interpret memory regions as different data types than intended. The execution context of the exploited process is compromised, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code with the same privileges as the Foxit Reader application. This presents a significant risk for enterprise environments where PDF readers are frequently used, as it can serve as an initial access vector for broader system compromise. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple code execution to potential privilege escalation scenarios, especially when Foxit Reader runs with elevated permissions. The flaw demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and type checking in document processing applications, particularly those handling complex data format conversions like XFD. Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of sandboxing requirements and application hardening measures, as traditional network-based protections may not prevent exploitation of client-side vulnerabilities. Organizations should prioritize patch management for this vulnerability and implement additional controls such as PDF content filtering, restricted browser access to potentially malicious sites, and user education to prevent successful exploitation through social engineering vectors. The vulnerability also highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of document processing libraries and the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches across all deployed software versions.