CVE-2018-14277 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 mailDoc 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-6059.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/11/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-14277 represents a critical security flaw in Foxit Reader version 9.0.1.1049 that enables remote code execution through a type confusion vulnerability within the mailDoc method. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-467 weakness category, which specifically addresses the use of potentially insecure functions that can lead to unexpected behavior when handling data types. The flaw exists in the JavaScript engine's handling of object types during document processing, creating a condition where the application fails to properly validate data types, allowing attackers to manipulate the execution flow.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires a user to interact with malicious content, either by visiting a compromised webpage or opening a specially crafted malicious file. This user interaction requirement aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1203 - Exploitation for Client Execution, where adversaries leverage application vulnerabilities to execute code on targeted systems. The vulnerability manifests through JavaScript code that triggers a type confusion condition, where the application incorrectly handles objects of different types, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged for arbitrary code execution. The attack vector specifically targets the mailDoc method, which is responsible for handling document mailing functionality within the Foxit Reader application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it allows attackers to execute code with the privileges of the current process, potentially leading to full system compromise. When exploited successfully, the vulnerability enables attackers to bypass normal security controls and gain unauthorized access to the target system. This represents a significant threat to organizations that rely on Foxit Reader for document processing, as the vulnerability can be exploited through web-based attacks without requiring any special privileges or authentication. The vulnerability's presence in a widely used PDF reader application creates a substantial attack surface that can be leveraged across multiple environments, including enterprise networks, educational institutions, and government organizations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-14277 should include immediate patching of Foxit Reader to version 9.0.1.1050 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the type confusion vulnerability. Organizations should also implement network-based security controls such as web application firewalls and content filtering to prevent access to malicious websites that may host exploit code. Additionally, security awareness training for end users is crucial to prevent accidental exploitation through social engineering attacks that might lead users to visit malicious sites or open compromised files. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and type checking in application code, aligning with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines for preventing injection attacks and memory corruption vulnerabilities.