CVE-2020-10909 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE-2020-10909 article provides insights into a vulnerability in Foxit PhantomPDF 9.7.0.29478 that allows remote code execution.

Understanding CVE-2020-10909

This vulnerability, assigned CVE-2020-10909, affects Foxit PhantomPDF version 9.7.0.29478 and can be exploited by remote attackers to execute arbitrary code.

What is CVE-2020-10909?

The vulnerability in Foxit PhantomPDF 9.7.0.29478 allows attackers to execute code by exploiting a flaw in the AddWatermark command of the communication API due to improper validation of user-supplied data.

The Impact of CVE-2020-10909

CVSS Base Score: 7.8 (High Severity)
Attack Vector: Local
User Interaction: Required
Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability Impact: High
Vulnerability Type: Type Confusion (CWE-843)

Technical Details of CVE-2020-10909

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from improper validation of user-supplied data in the AddWatermark command, leading to a type confusion condition that enables code execution.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: PhantomPDF
Vendor: Foxit
Version: 9.7.0.29478

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Privileges Required: None
Scope: Unchanged
Exploitation requires user interaction, such as visiting a malicious page or opening a malicious file.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit PhantomPDF to a patched version.
Avoid visiting untrusted websites or opening suspicious files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and security patches.
Implement security awareness training to recognize phishing attempts.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Foxit to address the vulnerability.