CVE-2022-24955 in Foxit
Summary
by MITRE • 02/11/2022
Foxit PDF Reader before 11.2.1 and Foxit PDF Editor before 11.2.1 have an Uncontrolled Search Path Element for DLL files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/16/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-24955 affects Foxit PDF Reader and Foxit PDF Editor versions prior to 11.2.1, representing a critical uncontrolled search path element flaw that enables malicious actors to execute arbitrary code through dynamic link library injection. This vulnerability stems from the software's improper handling of library loading mechanisms, specifically allowing attackers to manipulate the search path used to locate and load dynamic link libraries. The flaw creates an environment where malicious DLL files can be loaded in place of legitimate system libraries, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
This vulnerability maps directly to CWE-427 Uncontrolled Search Path Element, which occurs when a program searches for libraries or executables in directories specified by the user or environment variables without proper validation or sanitization. The root cause lies in the software's failure to implement secure library loading practices, particularly when dealing with dynamic link libraries that are loaded at runtime. Attackers can exploit this by placing malicious DLL files in directories that are searched before legitimate system directories, effectively hijacking the application's execution flow.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-24955 is significant as it provides attackers with a pathway for privilege escalation and persistent access to affected systems. When a user opens a malicious PDF file, the application's improper library loading mechanism can result in arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the running process. This vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including T1546.009 Application Shimming and T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter, as attackers can leverage the compromised application to execute malicious payloads. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users may open untrusted PDF documents, potentially leading to widespread compromise across networked systems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected versions to 11.2.1 or later, which addresses the uncontrolled search path issue through proper library loading mechanisms. Organizations should implement application whitelisting policies to restrict which executables can run on systems, particularly in high-risk environments. Additionally, security teams should monitor for suspicious library loading behavior through endpoint detection and response tools, as this vulnerability can be exploited through social engineering campaigns targeting document opening activities. System administrators should also consider implementing security measures such as Windows Defender Application Control or similar technologies to prevent unauthorized DLL loading, ensuring that only trusted libraries can be loaded by the affected applications.