CVE-2019-6769 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A vulnerability has been discovered in Foxit Reader 9.4.1.16828 that could potentially allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. User interaction is required for exploitation, such as visiting a malicious webpage or opening a malicious file. The vulnerability is related to the removeField method in processing AcroForms, where the lack of object validation leads to code execution within the current process.

Understanding CVE-2019-6769

This CVE identifies a critical vulnerability in Foxit Reader version 9.4.1.16828.

What is CVE-2019-6769?

CVE-2019-6769 is a security flaw in Foxit Reader 9.4.1.16828 that allows remote attackers to run arbitrary code on affected systems by exploiting a specific issue in the software's processing of AcroForms.

The Impact of CVE-2019-6769

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 7.8, indicating a high severity level with significant impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system. The attack complexity is low, but user interaction is required for successful exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-6769

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is classified as CWE-416: Use After Free, allowing attackers to execute code within the current process by exploiting the removeField method in AcroForms processing.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Foxit Reader
Vendor: Foxit
Version: 9.4.1.16828

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Vector: Local
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: Required
Scope: Unchanged
Attack Complexity: Low
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-6769 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit Reader to the latest version to patch the vulnerability.
Avoid visiting suspicious websites or opening files from unknown sources.
Implement security measures to prevent unauthorized code execution.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and security patches to address known vulnerabilities.
Educate users on safe browsing habits and the risks of opening untrusted files.
Employ network security solutions to detect and block malicious activities.

Patching and Updates

Foxit Software provides security bulletins with patches for known vulnerabilities.
Stay informed about security advisories from trusted sources like Zero Day Initiative.