CVE-2017-16588 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE-2017-16588 article provides insights into a vulnerability affecting Foxit Reader version 8.3.1.21155, allowing remote attackers to expose confidential information and potentially execute arbitrary code.

Understanding CVE-2017-16588

This vulnerability, identified as ZDI-CAN-4976, poses a risk to users of Foxit Reader 8.3.1.21155, requiring user interaction with malicious webpages or files for exploitation.

What is CVE-2017-16588?

The vulnerability in Foxit Reader 8.3.1.21155 allows remote attackers to access sensitive data by exploiting flaws in SOT marker parsing, leading to potential code execution within the current process.

The Impact of CVE-2017-16588

The vulnerability exposes confidential information on systems running the affected version of Foxit Reader, potentially enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-16588

This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability affecting Foxit Reader version 8.3.1.21155.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw arises from inadequate validation of user-supplied data, allowing attackers to read beyond allocated objects and execute code within the current process.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Foxit Reader
Vendor: Foxit
Version: 8.3.1.21155

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the vulnerability by interacting with malicious webpages or files
Root cause lies in the parsing of SOT markers
Lack of validation of user-supplied data leads to data reading beyond allocated objects
Potential for executing arbitrary code within the current process

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-16588 involves immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit Reader to a patched version
Exercise caution when interacting with unknown or suspicious webpages or files

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications
Implement robust cybersecurity measures to prevent and detect vulnerabilities

Patching and Updates

Foxit Reader users should apply security patches promptly to mitigate the risk of exploitation.