CVE-2019-6733 : Security Advisory and Response

A vulnerability has been detected in Foxit PhantomPDF that allows remote attackers to access confidential information by exploiting flaws in handling PDF files.

Understanding CVE-2019-6733

This CVE identifies a security vulnerability in Foxit PhantomPDF that can be exploited by remote attackers to execute code within the current process.

What is CVE-2019-6733?

The vulnerability in Foxit PhantomPDF allows attackers to access sensitive information by manipulating PDF files, requiring user interaction to trigger the exploit.

The Impact of CVE-2019-6733

Attackers can access confidential data stored in Foxit PhantomPDF installations.
User interaction, such as visiting a malicious webpage or opening a malicious file, is necessary for exploitation.
The vulnerability stems from improper validation of user-supplied data in PDF file handling.
Exploiting this flaw can lead to reading beyond the allocated buffer and code execution within the current process.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-6733

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability, identified as ZDI-CAN-7576, allows remote attackers to disclose sensitive information by exploiting flaws in Foxit PhantomPDF's handling of PDF files.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: PhantomPDF
Vendor: Foxit
Version: 9.3.0.10826

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the vulnerability by manipulating PDF files, requiring user interaction like visiting a malicious webpage or opening a malicious file.
The flaw arises from the lack of proper validation of user-supplied data, enabling attackers to read beyond the allocated buffer and execute code within the current process.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-6733 involves immediate steps and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit PhantomPDF to the latest version to patch the vulnerability.
Avoid visiting suspicious websites or opening files from unknown sources.
Implement security measures to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and security patches to protect against known vulnerabilities.
Educate users on safe browsing habits and the risks associated with opening files from untrusted sources.

Patching and Updates

Foxit has released security bulletins addressing the vulnerability in PhantomPDF.
Stay informed about security advisories from Foxit and apply patches promptly to secure systems.