CVE-2019-5131 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability has been discovered in Foxit PDF Reader version 9.7.0.29435 that allows for the execution of unauthorized code by exploiting memory after it has been freed.

Understanding CVE-2019-5131

This CVE involves a use-after-free vulnerability in the JavaScript engine of Foxit PDF Reader version 9.7.0.29435.

What is CVE-2019-5131?

The vulnerability allows an attacker to reuse a released object in memory, leading to unauthorized code execution.
Deception of the user into opening a malicious PDF document is required to exploit this vulnerability.
Activation of the browser plugin extension could also trigger the vulnerability when visiting a malicious website.

The Impact of CVE-2019-5131

CVSS Score: 8.8 (High)
Attack Vector: Network
Attack Complexity: Low
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: Required
Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability Impact: High

Technical Details of CVE-2019-5131

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is classified as CWE-416: Use After Free.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: Foxit PDF Reader
Affected Version: 9.7.0.29435

Exploitation Mechanism

Crafted PDF documents can trigger the reuse of freed memory objects, enabling arbitrary code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-5131 is crucial to prevent unauthorized access and code execution.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit PDF Reader to a patched version.
Avoid opening PDF files from untrusted sources.
Disable browser plugins that may interact with PDF files.

Long-Term Security Practices

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

Patching and Updates

Foxit Software may release patches to address this vulnerability. Stay informed about security updates and apply them promptly.