CVE-2020-10904 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of Foxit PhantomPDF 9.7.1.29511. User interaction is required to exploit this vulnerability in that the target must visit a malicious page or open a malicious file. The specific flaw exists within the handling of U3D objects in PDF files. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current process.

Understanding CVE-2020-10904

This CVE identifies a critical vulnerability in Foxit PhantomPDF version 9.7.1.29511.

What is CVE-2020-10904?

CVE-2020-10904 is a security vulnerability that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on systems running Foxit PhantomPDF 9.7.1.29511. The flaw is related to the handling of U3D objects in PDF files.

The Impact of CVE-2020-10904

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 7.8, indicating a high severity level. The impact includes high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts, with low attack complexity and local attack vector.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-10904

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Foxit PhantomPDF 9.7.1.29511 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code due to improper validation of user-supplied data, leading to a write past the end of an allocated object.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: PhantomPDF
Vendor: Foxit
Version: 9.7.1.29511

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Local
User Interaction: Required
Privileges Required: None
Scope: Unchanged

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-10904 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit PhantomPDF to a non-vulnerable version.
Avoid opening files or visiting websites from untrusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and security patches.
Educate users on safe browsing habits and file handling.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that Foxit PhantomPDF is regularly updated with the latest security patches to mitigate the risk of exploitation.