CVE-2018-14272 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 removeIcon 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-6035.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/11/2020
CVE-2018-14272 represents a critical remote code execution vulnerability affecting Foxit Reader version 9.0.1.1049 that demonstrates a classic type confusion flaw within the application's JavaScript engine. This vulnerability resides in the removeIcon method which processes user-supplied data without proper type validation, creating an exploitable condition where an attacker can manipulate object types during runtime. The flaw constitutes a CWE-471 vulnerability, specifically a modification of an object to an unexpected type, which allows attackers to manipulate memory layout and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the Foxit Reader process. The vulnerability requires user interaction through visiting a malicious webpage or opening a specially crafted malicious file, making it particularly dangerous in phishing scenarios or when users browse untrusted web content. The attack leverages JavaScript execution within the PDF reader's sandbox environment to trigger a type confusion condition that ultimately leads to code execution. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for JavaScript execution and T1203 for exploitation for execution, demonstrating how web-based attacks can escalate to system compromise. The remote nature of the vulnerability means that attackers can exploit it without physical access to the target system, making it particularly concerning for enterprise environments where users frequently access external websites or receive PDF attachments. The type confusion occurs when the removeIcon method fails to properly validate the types of objects passed to it, allowing an attacker to manipulate the JavaScript engine's memory management and potentially overwrite critical function pointers or execute malicious code. The impact extends beyond simple code execution as the vulnerability operates within the context of the current process, potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges or access sensitive system resources. This vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation in JavaScript engines and the need for robust type checking mechanisms in PDF processing applications. The exploitation process typically involves crafting a malicious PDF file that triggers the vulnerable removeIcon method through carefully constructed JavaScript code, which then exploits the type confusion to gain arbitrary code execution capabilities. Organizations should consider implementing network-based protections such as web application firewalls and email filtering solutions to prevent users from accessing malicious content that could exploit this vulnerability.
The vulnerability's classification as a type confusion issue directly relates to CWE-128 which describes the condition where a value is used in a context where a different type is expected, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate program execution flow. This particular flaw in Foxit Reader's JavaScript engine demonstrates how complex applications with extensive scripting capabilities can become attack vectors when proper input validation is absent. The vulnerability's exploitation requires a sophisticated understanding of the PDF reader's internal memory management and JavaScript engine behavior, indicating that it represents a zero-day or advanced persistent threat vector. Security researchers have noted that similar vulnerabilities in PDF readers often stem from insufficient bounds checking and type validation within object manipulation methods, making this a common attack surface for privilege escalation. The remote code execution capability means that successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, especially when users have administrative privileges or when the application is used in enterprise environments with shared resources. The vulnerability's presence in Foxit Reader version 9.0.1.1049 indicates that it was likely present in multiple versions of the software, emphasizing the need for comprehensive patch management programs. The requirement for user interaction makes this vulnerability particularly challenging to defend against, as it requires user education and security awareness training alongside technical controls. This vulnerability represents a significant concern for organizations that rely heavily on PDF document processing and may have been exploited in targeted attacks against specific industries or government entities. The attack vector through malicious web pages or files demonstrates the interconnected nature of modern cyber threats where a single vulnerability can serve as an entry point for broader compromise. Organizations should prioritize immediate patching of affected versions and implement monitoring for suspicious PDF file access patterns or JavaScript execution within their PDF processing applications. The vulnerability's classification as ZDI-CAN-6035 indicates it was recognized by the Zero Day Initiative and likely had a corresponding advisory and patch released, highlighting the importance of maintaining current security updates for enterprise applications. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices and the need for regular security assessments of complex applications that handle user-supplied content. The exploitability of this vulnerability underscores the necessity of layered security approaches that combine technical controls with user education to prevent successful exploitation attempts.