CVE-2020-17412 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A vulnerability in Foxit PhantomPDF 10.0.0.35798 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code, posing a high risk to confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Understanding CVE-2020-17412

This CVE involves a critical flaw in Foxit PhantomPDF that enables attackers to run malicious code on affected systems.

What is CVE-2020-17412?

The vulnerability permits remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on installations of Foxit PhantomPDF 10.0.0.35798.
User interaction is necessary, requiring the target to access a malicious page or open a harmful file.
The issue stems from improper validation of user-supplied data related to U3D objects in PDF files.

The Impact of CVE-2020-17412

CVSS Base Score: 7.8 (High Severity)
Attack Vector: Local
User Interaction: Required
Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability Impact: High
Attack Complexity: Low

Technical Details of CVE-2020-17412

This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows attackers to write past the end of an allocated structure, leading to code execution within the current process.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Foxit PhantomPDF
Vendor: Foxit
Version: 10.0.0.35798

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by manipulating U3D objects in PDF files, leveraging the lack of proper data validation.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-17412 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit PhantomPDF to the latest version.
Avoid opening files or visiting websites from untrusted sources.
Implement security awareness training to educate users on phishing tactics.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and security patches.
Employ network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Utilize intrusion detection systems to monitor and detect malicious activities.

Patching and Updates

Foxit has likely released patches to address this vulnerability. Ensure timely installation of these updates to mitigate the risk of exploitation.