CVE-2020-8851 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of Foxit Reader 9.7.0.29455. 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 processing of JPG2000 images. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of user-supplied data, which can result in a write past the end of an allocated structure. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current process. Was ZDI-CAN-9406.

Understanding CVE-2020-8851

This CVE-2020-8851 vulnerability affects Foxit Reader version 9.7.0.29455.

What is CVE-2020-8851?

CVE-2020-8851 is a vulnerability that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of Foxit Reader 9.7.0.29455. The flaw is related to the processing of JPG2000 images.

The Impact of CVE-2020-8851

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as high, with a CVSS base score of 7.8. It requires user interaction to be exploited, and successful attacks can lead to high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-8851

This section provides technical details about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is classified as CWE-787: Out-of-bounds Write. It stems from improper validation of user-supplied data, allowing attackers to write past the end of an allocated structure.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Foxit Reader
Vendor: Foxit
Version: 9.7.0.29455

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Local
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: Required
Scope: Unchanged

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-8851 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit Reader to a patched version if available
Avoid opening files or visiting websites from untrusted sources
Implement security awareness training to educate users about phishing attacks

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to patch known vulnerabilities
Use security tools like antivirus and intrusion detection systems
Monitor network traffic for suspicious activities

Patching and Updates

Ensure that Foxit Reader is updated to the latest version to mitigate the risk of exploitation.