CVE-2021-27268 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE-2021-27268 article provides details about a vulnerability found in Foxit PhantomPDF version 10.1.0.37527 that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code. User interaction is required to exploit this vulnerability by visiting a malicious page or opening a malicious file.

Understanding CVE-2021-20657

This section will cover the vulnerability, its impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.

What is CVE-2021-20657?

CVE-2021-27268 is a vulnerability in Foxit PhantomPDF 10.1.0.37527 that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations by exploiting the handling of U3D objects in PDF files.

The Impact of CVE-2021-20657

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 7.8 (High severity) with high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Attackers can execute code within the current process by leveraging this flaw.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-20657

This section will delve into the description of the vulnerability, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The specific flaw in CVE-2021-27268 lies in the lack of validating the existence of an object before performing operations on it, allowing attackers to execute code in the context of the current process.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected product is Foxit PhantomPDF version 10.1.0.37527.

Exploitation Mechanism

User interaction is required for exploitation, where the attacker needs the target to visit a malicious page or open a malicious file.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines the immediate steps to take, long-term security practices, and the importance of patching and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users must update Foxit PhantomPDF to a patched version immediately and avoid interacting with unknown or suspicious files or links.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing security best practices, such as regularly updating software, educating users on safe browsing habits, and using security tools, can help mitigate such vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security bulletins and advisories from Foxit to apply patches and updates promptly to protect systems.