CVE-2020-28203 : Security Advisory and Response
Discover the null pointer access/dereference vulnerability in Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF 10.1.0.37527 and earlier, leading to a denial of service. Learn about the impact, affected systems, exploitation, and mitigation steps.
An issue was discovered in Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF 10.1.0.37527 and earlier, leading to a denial of service due to a null pointer access/dereference vulnerability.
Understanding CVE-2020-28203
This CVE describes a vulnerability in Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions 10.1.0.37527 and earlier that could be exploited by opening a specially crafted PDF file, causing the application to crash.
What is CVE-2020-28203?
The vulnerability in Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions 10.1.0.37527 and earlier allows for a null pointer access/dereference when processing a malicious PDF file, resulting in a denial of service (application crash).
The Impact of CVE-2020-28203
The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker to crash the application, potentially leading to disruption of service or data loss.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-28203
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
A null pointer access/dereference vulnerability exists in Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF 10.1.0.37527 and earlier when handling specially crafted PDF files.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions 10.1.0.37527 and earlier
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker by enticing a user to open a malicious PDF file, triggering the null pointer access/dereference.
Mitigation and Prevention
It is crucial to take immediate steps to mitigate the impact of CVE-2020-28203 and prevent future occurrences.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF to the latest version to patch the vulnerability.
- Avoid opening PDF files from untrusted or unknown sources.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and applications to ensure the latest security patches are applied.
- Educate users on safe browsing habits and the risks associated with opening files from unfamiliar sources.
- Implement network security measures to detect and block malicious PDF files.
- Consider using alternative PDF readers with strong security features.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF are regularly updated to the latest versions to address known vulnerabilities and enhance overall security.