CVE-2018-19447 in Reader SDK Professsional
Summary
by MITRE
A stack-based buffer overflow can occur for specially crafted PDF files in Foxit Reader SDK (ActiveX) 5.4.0.1031 when parsing the URI string. An attacker can leverage this to gain remote code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/05/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-19447 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within Foxit Reader SDK version 5.4.0.1031 that specifically affects the ActiveX component used for PDF processing. This vulnerability manifests when the software encounters specially crafted PDF files containing maliciously formatted URI strings during the parsing process. The flaw resides in the improper handling of input validation within the URI string processing routine, where the application fails to adequately check the length of incoming data before copying it to a fixed-size stack buffer. Such insufficient bounds checking creates an exploitable condition where an attacker can overflow the allocated stack space and overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting the program execution flow.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a well-established pattern that aligns with CWE-121 stack-based buffer overflow classification and represents a significant concern from both exploitability and impact perspectives. When a malicious PDF file is processed, the URI parsing function accepts an oversized input string that exceeds the predetermined buffer capacity, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged for arbitrary code execution. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1203, where adversaries exploit software vulnerabilities to execute malicious code remotely. The ActiveX component's architecture makes it particularly susceptible since it operates with elevated privileges and can be triggered through web-based attacks without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious webpage containing the crafted PDF.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities for threat actors. Successful exploitation can result in complete system control, allowing attackers to install malware, establish persistence mechanisms, or access sensitive information stored on the compromised system. The vulnerability affects organizations using Foxit Reader SDK in their applications, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where PDF processing is common. The remote code execution capability means attackers can exploit this vulnerability from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to target systems, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation campaigns.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-19447 should prioritize immediate patching of affected Foxit Reader SDK versions to prevent exploitation. Organizations should implement network-based controls such as web application firewalls and content filtering systems to block suspicious PDF files and URI strings from reaching vulnerable systems. Additionally, security teams should consider disabling ActiveX controls in web browsers where possible and implement strict input validation measures for all PDF processing components. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and proper bounds checking, particularly in legacy software components that may not have been designed with modern security considerations in mind. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be implemented to identify similar issues in other third-party libraries and software components that may be susceptible to similar buffer overflow conditions.