CVE-2026-57250 in PDF Editor
Summary
by MITRE • 07/08/2026
When the application opens a PDF and JavaScript resets the form fields, the script re-enters the interface. The underlying native object is damaged, but the application does not perform validation. The function call on the damaged object leads to the application crashing.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/08/2026
This vulnerability represents a classic use-after-free condition that occurs during PDF document processing when JavaScript execution triggers form field reset operations. The flaw manifests when an application opens a maliciously crafted PDF file containing embedded javascript code that manipulates form fields through the pdf reader's native interface. When the script attempts to reset form fields, it inadvertently causes the underlying native object structure to become corrupted or prematurely deallocated while still being referenced by subsequent operations. The application fails to implement proper validation mechanisms to verify the integrity of native objects before executing function calls against them, creating a scenario where corrupted memory references lead directly to application instability and potential arbitrary code execution.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-416 which describes use-after-free conditions in software systems. This particular implementation flaw demonstrates how improper memory management during dynamic object manipulation can result in critical security breaches when applications fail to validate object state before operation execution. The attack surface is particularly concerning because it operates at the intersection of document parsing and script execution, where legitimate user interactions with PDF forms can be leveraged to trigger memory corruption through malicious javascript payloads.
The operational impact extends beyond simple application crashes to potentially enable more sophisticated attacks including privilege escalation and remote code execution depending on the target application's security model. When native objects become corrupted during form field manipulation, the application's memory management system may experience undefined behavior that could be exploited by attackers to inject malicious code or manipulate program flow. This vulnerability particularly affects enterprise applications that process untrusted PDF documents, as it can be triggered through routine user activities like opening emails with PDF attachments or accessing web-based document portals.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing comprehensive input validation and memory integrity checks within pdf processing frameworks, along with robust object lifecycle management during javascript execution contexts. The implementation of address space layout randomization and data execution prevention mechanisms can provide additional protection layers against exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider deploying sandboxed environments for PDF processing and implementing strict content filtering policies to prevent the execution of potentially malicious javascript code within document contexts. Regular security updates and patches addressing known memory corruption vulnerabilities in pdf rendering engines are essential defensive measures that align with industry best practices for mitigating similar threats categorized under the attack technique T1059.007 for scripting languages and T1203 for exploitation of memory corruption vulnerabilities.