CVE-2019-20836 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions prior to 9.5 have a vulnerability related to mishandling cloud credentials, particularly in Google Drive integration.

Understanding CVE-2019-20836

This CVE identifies a security issue in Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions before 9.5, affecting the handling of cloud credentials, specifically in relation to Google Drive integration.

What is CVE-2019-20836?

This CVE pertains to a vulnerability in Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions prior to 9.5, where there is a mishandling of cloud credentials, notably concerning Google Drive integration.

The Impact of CVE-2019-20836

The mishandling of cloud credentials in these versions can potentially lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information stored on Google Drive, posing a risk to user data confidentiality and integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-20836

This section provides technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue in Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions before 9.5 involves mishandling cloud credentials, specifically demonstrated in Google Drive integration.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF
Versions: Prior to 9.5

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access to cloud credentials, potentially compromising data stored on Google Drive.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from this vulnerability is crucial to maintaining data security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF to version 9.5 or later.
Monitor cloud storage accounts for any unauthorized access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement multi-factor authentication for cloud storage accounts.
Regularly review and update security configurations for cloud integrations.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates for Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF to address this vulnerability.