CVE-2018-17654 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A security weakness has been discovered in Foxit Reader version 9.2.0.9297 that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by exploiting a specific flaw in the handling of the insertInstance method of a Form object.

Understanding CVE-2018-17654

This CVE entry pertains to a vulnerability in Foxit Reader version 9.2.0.9297 that can be exploited by remote attackers to execute arbitrary code.

What is CVE-2018-17654?

The vulnerability in Foxit Reader version 9.2.0.9297 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code by manipulating the insertInstance method of a Form object.

The Impact of CVE-2018-17654

Exploiting this vulnerability requires user interaction, such as visiting a malicious webpage or opening a malicious file. Attackers can execute code within the current process by leveraging this flaw.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-17654

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is classified as CWE-416: Use After Free, indicating a specific type of memory corruption issue.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Foxit Reader
Vendor: Foxit
Version: 9.2.0.9297

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the insertInstance method of a Form object in Foxit Reader version 9.2.0.9297.
The vulnerability arises from the failure to validate the existence of an object before performing operations on it.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-17654 involves taking immediate steps and implementing long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit Reader to a patched version that addresses the vulnerability.
Avoid visiting suspicious websites or opening files from unknown sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to patch known vulnerabilities.
Educate users about the risks of interacting with untrusted content online.

Patching and Updates

Foxit Software has likely released a security bulletin addressing this vulnerability.
Stay informed about security advisories from Foxit and apply patches promptly.