CVE-2017-8453 : Security Advisory and Response

An out-of-bounds read vulnerability in Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions prior to 8.2.1 allows remote attackers to access sensitive information or execute arbitrary code via a manipulated font in a PDF file.

Understanding CVE-2017-8453

This CVE involves a critical security issue in Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF software.

What is CVE-2017-8453?

This CVE identifies an out-of-bounds read vulnerability in Foxit Reader versions before 8.2.1 and PhantomPDF versions before 8.2.1. Attackers can exploit this flaw to potentially access confidential data or run malicious code by using a specially crafted font in a PDF document.

The Impact of CVE-2017-8453

The vulnerability poses a significant risk as it allows remote attackers to compromise the security and integrity of systems running the affected software. By exploiting this flaw, attackers can gain unauthorized access to sensitive information or execute arbitrary code on the target system.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-8453

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions prior to 8.2.1 enables an out-of-bounds read, which can be leveraged by remote attackers to potentially retrieve sensitive data or execute arbitrary code through a manipulated font embedded in a PDF file.

Affected Systems and Versions

Foxit Reader versions before 8.2.1
PhantomPDF versions before 8.2.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious font within a PDF file, which upon opening by a vulnerable version of Foxit Reader or PhantomPDF, triggers the out-of-bounds read, leading to unauthorized access or code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-8453 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF to versions 8.2.1 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid opening PDF files from untrusted or unknown sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches promptly.
Implement network security measures to detect and block potentially malicious PDF files.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all software, including Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF, is regularly updated with the latest security patches to address known vulnerabilities.