CVE-2018-17687 in PhantomPDF
Summary
by MITRE
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable installations of Foxit PhantomPDF 9.2.0.9297. 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 handling of the exportValues property of a radio button. The issue results from the lack of validating the existence of an object prior to performing operations on the object. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current process. Was ZDI-CAN-7068.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/01/2024
This vulnerability resides in Foxit PhantomPDF version 9.2.0.9297 and represents a critical remote code execution flaw that can be exploited through user interaction. The vulnerability specifically targets the handling of the exportValues property within radio button elements, demonstrating a classic object-oriented programming error that has significant security implications. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms that fail to verify whether an object exists before attempting operations on it, creating a dangerous condition where arbitrary code execution becomes possible.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows a well-established pattern of use-after-free or null pointer dereference conditions that are commonly classified under CWE-476. When a malicious page or file is loaded, the application processes the radio button element with the exportValues property without first confirming the object's validity. This validation gap allows an attacker to craft specifically designed input that manipulates the application's memory state, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution within the context of the current process. The vulnerability's exploitation requires user interaction, making it a client-side attack vector that relies on social engineering techniques to deliver malicious content.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with elevated privileges and access to the victim's system resources. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that PDF readers like Foxit PhantomPDF are frequently used for business and personal documents, making them prime targets for targeted attacks. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install malware, steal sensitive information, or establish persistent access to compromised systems. The ZDI-CAN-7068 reference indicates this vulnerability was recognized and tracked by the Zero Day Initiative, highlighting its significance in the security community and the potential for widespread exploitation across various organizations.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patch application as provided by Foxit, along with network-level defenses such as web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious PDF content. Organizations should implement strict access controls and user education programs to reduce the likelihood of successful exploitation through social engineering attacks. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1203 (Exploitation for Client Execution) emphasizes the need for comprehensive endpoint protection measures that monitor for suspicious process activities and unauthorized code execution attempts. Additionally, security teams should consider implementing sandboxing mechanisms for PDF processing and regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other software components.