CVE-2018-10479 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Vulnerable installations of Foxit Reader 9.0.0.29935 are exposed to a security flaw that enables remote attackers to unveil sensitive information by exploiting a vulnerability related to U3D Key Frame structures.

Understanding CVE-2018-10479

This CVE entry highlights a security vulnerability in Foxit Reader version 9.0.0.29935 that allows remote attackers to access sensitive data through a specific flaw in the application's handling of U3D Key Frame structures.

What is CVE-2018-10479?

The vulnerability in Foxit Reader 9.0.0.29935 allows remote attackers to disclose sensitive information by exploiting a flaw in the evaluation process of U3D Key Frame structures. Insufficient validation of user-supplied data can lead to unauthorized access to data beyond the designated structure, potentially enabling code execution within the current process.

The Impact of CVE-2018-10479

Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability to access sensitive information on affected installations of Foxit Reader 9.0.0.29935.
User interaction is required, such as visiting a malicious webpage or opening a malicious file, to trigger the exploit.
The flaw stems from inadequate validation of user-supplied data, allowing attackers to read past the end of allocated data structures.
Hackers can leverage this vulnerability in combination with other security flaws to execute malicious code within the application's context.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-10479

This section provides detailed technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Foxit Reader 9.0.0.29935 arises from the improper handling of U3D Key Frame structures, leading to unauthorized access to sensitive information due to insufficient data validation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Foxit Reader
Vendor: Foxit
Version: 9.0.0.29935

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by enticing users to interact with a malicious webpage or open a corrupted file, triggering the flaw in U3D Key Frame structure evaluation.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-10479 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit Reader to a patched version that addresses the vulnerability.
Exercise caution when interacting with untrusted websites or opening files from unknown sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
Implement robust security measures, such as firewalls and antivirus software, to prevent unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Foxit provides security bulletins and patches to address vulnerabilities like CVE-2018-10479.