CVE-2017-8455 : What You Need to Know

Foxit Reader versions prior to 8.2.1 and PhantomPDF versions prior to 8.2.1 contain a vulnerability that enables malicious actors to retrieve sensitive data or potentially carry out unauthorized code execution by incorporating a specially crafted font within a PDF document.

Understanding CVE-2017-8455

This CVE entry highlights a critical vulnerability in Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions.

What is CVE-2017-8455?

CVE-2017-8455 is a security vulnerability found in Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions before 8.2.1. It allows attackers to access sensitive information or execute unauthorized code through a manipulated font in a PDF file.

The Impact of CVE-2017-8455

The vulnerability poses a significant risk as it can lead to the exposure of confidential data and potential execution of malicious code by threat actors.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-8455

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions before 8.2.1 suffer from an out-of-bounds read issue, enabling remote attackers to obtain sensitive information or potentially execute arbitrary code by using a crafted font in a PDF document.

Affected Systems and Versions

Foxit Reader versions prior to 8.2.1
PhantomPDF versions prior to 8.2.1

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by embedding a specially crafted font within a PDF file, which, when opened by a vulnerable version of Foxit Reader or PhantomPDF, allows attackers to access sensitive data or execute malicious code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-8455 is crucial to prevent potential security breaches.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF to versions 8.2.1 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
Exercise caution when opening PDF files from untrusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to the latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement network security measures to detect and block malicious PDF files.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Foxit Software to address CVE-2017-8455 and other potential vulnerabilities.