CVE-2021-33795 : What You Need to Know

Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF before 10.1.4 generate incorrect PDF document signatures due to mishandling certificate names, document owners, and signature authors.

Understanding CVE-2021-33795

This section delves into the details of CVE-2021-33795, highlighting its impact, technical description, affected systems, exploitation method, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2021-33795?

The vulnerability in Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions before 10.1.4 results in the incorrect generation of PDF document signatures. This occurs because the certificate name, document owner, and signature author are mishandled.

The Impact of CVE-2021-33795

The mishandling of essential information in PDF document signatures can lead to a situation where the authenticity of the document is compromised. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to create fraudulent documents that appear legitimate.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-33795

The technical aspects of CVE-2021-33795 include a detailed vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF versions before 10.1.4 mishandle certificate names, document owners, and signature authors, resulting in incorrect PDF document signatures.

Affected Systems and Versions

All versions of Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF before 10.1.4 are affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting this vulnerability, malicious actors could generate incorrect PDF document signatures, potentially leading to fraudulent activities.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2021-33795, immediate steps should be taken along with adopting long-term security practices and ensuring timely patching and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update Foxit Reader and PhantomPDF to version 10.1.4 or later to mitigate the vulnerability and prevent unauthorized manipulation of PDF document signatures.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and ensure that security patches are promptly applied to mitigate future vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and apply patches released by Foxit Software to safeguard against potential exploits.