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Vulnerability DatabaseCVE-2024-28888
CVE-2024-28888:
Foxit PDF Reader vulnerability analysis and mitigation
Overview
A use-after-free vulnerability (CVE-2024-28888) was discovered in Foxit Reader version 2024.1.0.23997. The vulnerability exists in how the software handles checkbox field objects within PDF documents. When exploited through specially crafted JavaScript code in a malicious PDF document, it can lead to memory corruption and arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability can be triggered either by opening a malicious PDF file or by visiting a specially crafted website if the browser plugin extension is enabled (Talos Report, NVD).
Technical details
The vulnerability stems from improper handling of checkbox field objects in Foxit Reader's JavaScript implementation. The software uses the V8 JavaScript engine for supporting interactive documents and dynamic forms. The issue occurs when a checkbox field object is freed by the deletePages() function and subsequently used without proper validation. This can be triggered through JavaScript code that creates a checkbox field object, assigns a callback function to a TextField object's Calculate event, and then calls deletePages, which frees all objects associated with a page. The vulnerability is tracked as CWE-416 (Use After Free) and has been assigned a CVSS v3.1 score of 8.8 (HIGH) (Talos Report).
Impact
If successfully exploited, this vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on the victim's system. The high CVSS score of 8.8 reflects the severity of potential impacts, including complete compromise of system confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The attack requires user interaction, typically through social engineering tactics to open a malicious PDF file or visit a compromised website (SOCRadar).
Mitigation and workarounds
Foxit has released patches to address this vulnerability in Foxit PDF Reader/Editor v2024.3 and Foxit PDF Editor v13.1.4. Users are strongly advised to update to these latest versions. Additionally, users should avoid opening PDF files from untrusted sources and disable the browser plugin extension when not needed (Foxit Security).
Additional resources
Source: This report was generated using AI
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