CVE-2017-10941 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in Foxit Reader 8.3.0.14878 allows remote attackers to execute unauthorized code by exploiting a flaw in the AFParseDateEx function.

Understanding CVE-2017-10941

This CVE identifies a critical vulnerability in Foxit Reader version 8.3.0.14878 that can be exploited by remote attackers to execute arbitrary code.

What is CVE-2017-10941?

The vulnerability in Foxit Reader 8.3.0.14878 allows attackers to execute unauthorized code by taking advantage of a flaw in the AFParseDateEx function. To exploit this vulnerability, the target user must interact with malicious content.

The Impact of CVE-2017-10941

Attackers can execute unauthorized code on vulnerable installations of Foxit Reader 8.3.0.14878
User interaction is required, such as visiting a malicious page or opening a corrupted file
The flaw lies within the AFParseDateEx function, caused by the failure to validate the existence of an object before performing operations
Exploiting this vulnerability allows attackers to execute code within the current process context

Technical Details of CVE-2017-10941

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Foxit Reader 8.3.0.14878 arises from a flaw in the AFParseDateEx function, allowing remote attackers to execute unauthorized code.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Foxit Reader
Vendor: Foxit
Version: 8.3.0.14878

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the vulnerability by tricking users into interacting with malicious content
The flaw occurs due to the lack of object validation before conducting operations
Successful exploitation enables attackers to execute code within the current process context

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-10941 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit Reader to a patched version that addresses the vulnerability
Avoid interacting with suspicious or untrusted files or websites
Implement security measures to detect and prevent unauthorized code execution

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to patch known vulnerabilities
Educate users on safe browsing habits and the risks of interacting with unknown content
Employ security solutions that can identify and mitigate exploit attempts

Patching and Updates

Foxit Reader users should install the latest updates provided by the vendor to fix the vulnerability