CVE-2018-14255 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 getNthFieldName 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-6018.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/11/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-14255 represents a critical security flaw in Foxit Reader version 9.0.1.1049 that enables remote code execution through a type confusion condition within the JavaScript engine. This issue falls under the CWE-121 category of Stack-based Buffer Overflow, though the specific mechanism manifests as type confusion rather than traditional buffer manipulation. The vulnerability resides in the getNthFieldName method which processes form field names within PDF documents, creating an environment where improper type handling can lead to arbitrary code execution. The attack vector requires user interaction, meaning that victims must either visit a malicious webpage or open a specially crafted PDF file containing malicious JavaScript code to be exploited.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through JavaScript manipulation that triggers a type confusion condition within the PDF processing engine. When the getNthFieldName method processes certain input parameters, it fails to properly validate or handle different data types, allowing an attacker to manipulate the execution flow of the application. This type confusion allows the attacker to control memory layout and execution paths, ultimately enabling code execution with the privileges of the current process. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, specifically JavaScript, and T1068 for Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, as the execution occurs within the context of the target application.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-14255 is significant for organizations using Foxit Reader 9.0.1.1049, as it provides attackers with a remote code execution capability that can be leveraged to compromise systems. The requirement for user interaction makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous in targeted phishing campaigns or when users are tricked into opening malicious PDF documents. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install malware, establish backdoors, or perform further reconnaissance within the compromised network. The vulnerability affects both Windows and macOS platforms where Foxit Reader is installed, making it a cross-platform threat. Organizations should consider this vulnerability in their risk assessments as it represents a potential entry point for advanced persistent threats.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-14255 should prioritize immediate patching of Foxit Reader installations to version 9.0.1.1050 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the type confusion issue. System administrators should implement strict email filtering and web content controls to prevent users from accessing malicious PDF files or web pages containing the exploit code. Network segmentation and monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual network activity that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of opening unexpected PDF files or visiting untrusted websites. The vulnerability highlights the importance of keeping document reader software updated and demonstrates how seemingly benign PDF processing functions can become attack vectors when proper input validation and type checking are absent. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of unauthorized software, particularly in environments where PDF documents are frequently processed.