CVE-2019-20837 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions prior to 9.5 contain a vulnerability that allows evasion of signature validation through modified or non-standard signature files.

Understanding CVE-2019-20837

This CVE identifies a security flaw in Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions before 9.5 that enables the bypass of signature validation.

What is CVE-2019-20837?

An issue in Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions prior to 9.5 allows attackers to evade signature validation by using altered files or files with non-standard signatures.

The Impact of CVE-2019-20837

This vulnerability could be exploited by malicious actors to deceive users into opening files that appear to be legitimate but contain harmful content, leading to potential security breaches.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-20837

Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions before 9.5 are susceptible to a signature validation bypass vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in these versions allows threat actors to bypass signature validation by utilizing files with modified content or non-standard signatures.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF
Versions: Prior to 9.5

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting files with altered content or non-standard signatures, tricking users into opening malicious files.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2019-20837, users and organizations should take immediate and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF to version 9.5 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability.
Exercise caution when opening files from untrusted or unknown sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to the latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement security awareness training to educate users on identifying and handling suspicious files.
Utilize reputable antivirus software to detect and prevent malicious files.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates provided by Foxit Software to address vulnerabilities and enhance system security.