CVE-2020-17417 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2020-17417, a high-severity vulnerability in Foxit Reader 10.0.1.35811 allowing remote code execution. Find mitigation steps and prevention measures here.
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of Foxit Reader 10.0.1.35811. 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 the Annotation objects. The issue results from the lack of validating the existence of an object prior to performing operations on the object. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current process. Was ZDI-CAN-11657.
Understanding CVE-2020-17417
This CVE-2020-17417 vulnerability affects Foxit Reader version 10.0.1.35811.
What is CVE-2020-17417?
CVE-2020-17417 is a vulnerability that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of Foxit Reader 10.0.1.35811. It requires user interaction to exploit by visiting a malicious page or opening a malicious file.
The Impact of CVE-2020-17417
- CVSS Base Score: 7.8 (High)
- Attack Vector: Local
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Privileges Required: None
- User Interaction: Required
- Confidentiality Impact: High
- Integrity Impact: High
- Availability Impact: High
- Scope: Unchanged
Technical Details of CVE-2020-17417
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from the lack of validating the existence of an object before performing operations on it, specifically within the handling of Annotation objects.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Product: Foxit Reader
- Affected Version: 10.0.1.35811
Exploitation Mechanism
The attacker needs the target to visit a malicious page or open a malicious file to exploit this vulnerability.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2020-17417 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Foxit Reader to the latest version.
- Avoid visiting suspicious or untrusted websites.
- Be cautious when opening files from unknown sources.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and applications.
- Implement security awareness training for users.
- Utilize endpoint protection solutions.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates for Foxit Reader.