CVE-2020-12247 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

In Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF before 10.0.1, attackers can exploit an out-of-bounds read vulnerability to access sensitive information and potentially cause a crash.

Understanding CVE-2020-12247

This CVE involves a security vulnerability in Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions prior to 10.0.1.

What is CVE-2020-12247?

Attackers can leverage an out-of-bounds read issue in the software, allowing them to extract sensitive data by continuing to use a text-string index after splitting a string into two parts. This could lead to a system crash.

The Impact of CVE-2020-12247

The vulnerability enables attackers to access confidential information and potentially disrupt system stability.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-12247

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from improper handling of text-string indexes after string splitting, leading to an out-of-bounds read.

Affected Systems and Versions

Foxit Reader before version 10.0.1
PhantomPDF before version 10.0.1 and 9.7.3

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the flaw by manipulating text-string indexes, allowing them to read sensitive data beyond the intended boundaries.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-12247 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF to versions 10.0.1 or newer.
Monitor for any unusual system behavior that could indicate exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement access controls and least privilege principles to limit potential damage.
Educate users on safe computing practices to prevent social engineering attacks.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates provided by Foxit Software to address CVE-2020-12247.