CVE-2021-31454 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE-2021-31454 article provides detailed information about a vulnerability found in Foxit Reader version 10.1.1.37576 that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code.

Understanding CVE-2021-31454

This section provides an overview of the vulnerability, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2021-31454?

CVE-2021-31454 is a vulnerability in Foxit Reader 10.1.1.37576 that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code. This occurs due to a heap-based buffer overflow in the handling of Decimal elements.

The Impact of CVE-2021-31454

The vulnerability poses a high risk as it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current process. Attackers can trigger the overflow of a fixed-length heap-based buffer by exploiting a crafted leadDigits value in a Decimal element.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-31454

This section elaborates on the vulnerability description, affected systems, versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from a heap-based buffer overflow in the handling of Decimal elements in Foxit Reader version 10.1.1.37576. Attackers can exploit a crafted leadDigits value to trigger the overflow, leading to arbitrary code execution.

Affected Systems and Versions

Foxit Reader version 10.1.1.37576 is affected by CVE-2021-31454, making installations of this particular version vulnerable to remote code execution attacks.

Exploitation Mechanism

User interaction is required to exploit this vulnerability. Attackers can execute arbitrary code by convincing a target to visit a malicious page or open a malicious file containing the crafted leadDigits value.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines immediate steps to take, long-term security practices, and the importance of patching and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update Foxit Reader to the latest version to mitigate the risk of exploitation. Exercise caution while interacting with unknown or suspicious files or websites.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing robust security measures, such as network segmentation, regular security audits, and user awareness training, can enhance overall security posture.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for and apply security patches released by Foxit to address known vulnerabilities and enhance the security of Foxit Reader installations.