CVE-2018-17698 : Security Advisory and Response

A security vulnerability in Foxit PhantomPDF 9.2.0.9297 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems.

Understanding CVE-2018-17698

This CVE involves a flaw in Foxit PhantomPDF 9.2.0.9297 that enables attackers to run arbitrary code remotely by exploiting a specific handling issue.

What is CVE-2018-17698?

The vulnerability in Foxit PhantomPDF 9.2.0.9297 permits attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems by manipulating the richValue property of a text field.

The Impact of CVE-2018-17698

Attackers can remotely run arbitrary code on vulnerable systems
User interaction is required, such as visiting a malicious webpage or opening a malicious file
Exploiting the flaw allows code execution within the ongoing process

Technical Details of CVE-2018-17698

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

Vulnerability Description

The flaw arises from the software's failure to validate the existence of an object before performing operations on it, specifically related to the richValue property of a text field.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: PhantomPDF
Vendor: Foxit
Version: 9.2.0.9297

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the richValue property of a text field to execute arbitrary code
Target users must interact with a harmful webpage or open a malicious file

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-17698 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

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and security patches
Implement robust cybersecurity measures to prevent code execution vulnerabilities

Patching and Updates

Foxit has released patches to address the vulnerability
Users should promptly apply the latest updates to mitigate the risk