CVE-2018-17689 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A weakness has been discovered in Foxit PhantomPDF 9.2.0.9297, allowing remote attackers to execute unauthorized code on vulnerable systems.

Understanding CVE-2018-17689

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Foxit PhantomPDF 9.2.0.9297 that enables attackers to run arbitrary code on affected systems.

What is CVE-2018-17689?

The vulnerability in Foxit PhantomPDF 9.2.0.9297 allows remote attackers to execute unauthorized code by exploiting a flaw in how the fillColor property of a radio button is managed.

The Impact of CVE-2018-17689

Attackers can run unauthorized code on susceptible systems
User interaction is required, such as visiting a corrupted webpage or opening a malicious file
Exploiting the weakness allows code execution within the current process

Technical Details of CVE-2018-17689

This section provides detailed technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

Identified as ZDI-CAN-7070
Vulnerability type: Use After Free (CWE-416)
The flaw lies in the handling of the fillColor property of a radio button
Occurs when the application fails to verify the presence of an object before operations

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: PhantomPDF
Vendor: Foxit
Version: 9.2.0.9297

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the vulnerability by manipulating the fillColor property of a radio button
The flaw allows unauthorized code execution within the current process

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-17689 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit PhantomPDF to a patched version
Avoid visiting suspicious websites or opening unknown files
Implement security measures to detect and prevent code execution attempts

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and security patches
Educate users on safe browsing habits and file handling

Patching and Updates

Foxit has released patches to address the vulnerability
Ensure all systems running PhantomPDF 9.2.0.9297 are updated to the latest secure version