CVE-2020-10913 : Security Advisory and Response

A vulnerability in Foxit PhantomPDF 9.7.0.29478 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code, posing a high risk to confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Understanding CVE-2020-10913

This CVE involves a type confusion vulnerability in Foxit PhantomPDF, requiring user interaction to exploit.

What is CVE-2020-10913?

The vulnerability in Foxit PhantomPDF 9.7.0.29478 enables attackers to run arbitrary code by manipulating the OCRAndExportToExcel command, due to inadequate validation of user-supplied data.

The Impact of CVE-2020-10913

The vulnerability has a high severity rating, affecting confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Attackers can execute code within the current process, necessitating user interaction for exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-10913

This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw arises from a type confusion issue in the handling of the OCRAndExportToExcel command, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: PhantomPDF
Vendor: Foxit
Version: 9.7.0.29478

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Local
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: Required
Scope: Unchanged
Impact: High on confidentiality, integrity, and availability

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-10913 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit PhantomPDF to the latest version.
Avoid visiting suspicious or untrusted websites.
Exercise caution when opening files from unknown sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement regular security training for users to recognize phishing attempts.
Employ network segmentation to limit the impact of potential breaches.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security bulletins from Foxit.
Apply patches promptly to address known vulnerabilities.