CVE-2018-3956 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability has been identified in Foxit Software's PDF Reader version 9.1.0.5096 that allows unauthorized access to data by exploiting specific XFA element attributes.

Understanding CVE-2018-3956

This CVE involves an out-of-bounds read vulnerability in Foxit Software's PDF Reader version 9.1.0.5096.

What is CVE-2018-3956?

The vulnerability allows attackers to access data by creating a malicious PDF document that triggers the application to read beyond its memory space.
Attackers can potentially expose sensitive information stored in memory and exploit other vulnerabilities.
User interaction is required to open the malicious file or trigger the vulnerability via a compromised website if the browser plugin extension is enabled.

The Impact of CVE-2018-3956

CVSS Score: 6.8 (Medium Severity)
Attack Vector: Network
Confidentiality Impact: High
Availability Impact: High
User Interaction: Required
Attack Complexity: High
Privileges Required: None
Scope: Unchanged
Integrity Impact: None

Technical Details of CVE-2018-3956

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

An out-of-bounds read vulnerability exists in handling specific XFA element attributes in Foxit Software's PDF Reader version 9.1.0.5096.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: Foxit
Affected Version: Foxit Software PDF Reader 9.1.0.5096

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the vulnerability by crafting a PDF document to trigger an out-of-bounds read, potentially exposing sensitive memory content.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-3956 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit Software PDF Reader to a patched version.
Avoid opening PDF files from untrusted or unknown sources.
Disable browser plugin extensions if not necessary.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to the latest versions.
Educate users on safe browsing habits and the risks associated with opening files from unknown sources.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Foxit promptly to address the vulnerability.