CVE-2018-14263 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 getVersionID 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-6026.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/11/2020
CVE-2018-14263 represents a critical type confusion vulnerability affecting Foxit Reader version 9.0.1.1049 that enables remote code execution under specific conditions. This vulnerability resides within the getVersionID method of the PDF reader's JavaScript engine, demonstrating a classic example of improper type handling that can be exploited through malicious web content or files. The flaw specifically manifests when the application processes JavaScript code that manipulates object types in unexpected ways, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate memory layout and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the current user process.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a well-established pattern that aligns with common software security weaknesses documented under CWE-128, which addresses "Unsigned to Signed Integer Conversion Error" and related type confusion issues. Attackers can craft malicious JavaScript code that triggers the type confusion condition within the getVersionID method, allowing them to manipulate how the application interprets data types during runtime operations. This particular vulnerability requires user interaction to be successful, making it a client-side attack vector that typically involves social engineering tactics to entice victims to visit compromised websites or open malicious documents containing the exploit code.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-14263 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with full control over the affected system through the compromised Foxit Reader process. This represents a significant security risk for organizations that rely on PDF viewing capabilities, particularly in environments where users may encounter untrusted content from web sources or email attachments. The vulnerability demonstrates the inherent dangers of complex scripting engines within document readers, where JavaScript execution capabilities can be leveraged to bypass traditional security boundaries. Attackers can potentially use this vulnerability to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, or deploy additional malware payloads, making it a particularly dangerous flaw in enterprise environments.
Organizations should prioritize immediate patching of affected Foxit Reader installations to address this vulnerability, as the ZDI-CAN-6026 reference indicates this issue was recognized and tracked by the Zero Day Initiative. Mitigation strategies beyond patching should include implementing web filtering solutions to block access to known malicious domains, educating users about the risks of visiting untrusted websites, and establishing strict policies for document handling in sensitive environments. Security teams should also monitor for indicators of compromise related to this vulnerability, such as unusual JavaScript execution patterns or unexpected process behavior in systems where Foxit Reader is installed, as outlined in the ATT&CK framework under techniques related to exploitation of software vulnerabilities and privilege escalation.