CVE-2017-8454 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions prior to 8.2.1 contain a vulnerability that allows malicious actors to access confidential data or execute unauthorized commands using a manipulated font in a PDF file.

Understanding CVE-2017-8454

This CVE entry highlights a critical security issue in Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions before 8.2.1.

What is CVE-2017-8454?

CVE-2017-8454 is a vulnerability in Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF that permits threat actors to exploit a flaw in the handling of fonts within PDF files to gather sensitive information or potentially run arbitrary code.

The Impact of CVE-2017-8454

The vulnerability in Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF could lead to severe consequences, including unauthorized access to confidential data and the execution of malicious commands by attackers leveraging manipulated fonts in PDF documents.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-8454

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE-2017-8454 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

Foxit Reader before 8.2.1 and PhantomPDF before 8.2.1 suffer from an out-of-bounds read issue that enables remote attackers to extract sensitive information or potentially execute arbitrary code through a crafted font in a PDF file.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Foxit Reader
Product: PhantomPDF
Versions affected: Prior to 8.2.1

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited by utilizing a specially crafted font embedded within a PDF file to trigger the out-of-bounds read, allowing attackers to compromise the system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-8454 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF to version 8.2.1 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Exercise caution when opening PDF files from untrusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement robust security protocols and practices to safeguard against potential threats.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates provided by Foxit Software to address CVE-2017-8454 and enhance overall system security.