CVE-2020-17413 : Security Advisory and Response

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-2020-17413

This CVE involves a stack-based buffer overflow in Foxit PhantomPDF, requiring user interaction for exploitation.

What is CVE-2020-17413?

The vulnerability enables attackers to run code on affected Foxit PhantomPDF installations by manipulating U3D objects in PDF files.

The Impact of CVE-2020-17413

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Local
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: Required
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High

Technical Details of CVE-2020-17413

This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw arises from inadequate validation of user-supplied data length, leading to a stack-based buffer overflow.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: PhantomPDF
Vendor: Foxit
Version: 10.0.0.35798

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the vulnerability by embedding malicious U3D objects in PDF files, requiring victims to interact with the compromised content.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-17413 is crucial to prevent unauthorized code execution.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Foxit PhantomPDF to a patched version.
Avoid opening PDF files from untrusted sources.
Implement security measures to detect and block malicious content.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and security patches.
Educate users on safe browsing habits and file handling.

Patching and Updates

Foxit has released patches to address the vulnerability.