Foxit Reader: Externally Controlled Reference to a Resource in Another Sphere
CVE-2023-39542 is a high-severity externally controlled reference to a resource in another sphere vulnerability in Foxit Reader from Foxit, with a CVSS 3.1 base score of 8.8 out of 10. It can be exploited remotely over the network by an unauthenticated attacker, but only if a user takes part, for example by opening a link or file. Affected Foxit Reader versions: 12.1.3.15356. The record does not name a fixed version, so check the vendor advisory. There is no confirmed exploitation so far. EPSS estimates a 3.77% chance of exploitation within 30 days, which is in the top 9.9% of all scored CVEs.
High severity with no evidence of exploitation so far.
What to do
- Check which version of Foxit Reader you run against the affected versions below, and install the vendor's latest release.
- Until you can update, restrict network access to the affected service so it is not reachable from untrusted networks.
- Because the attack needs a user to take part, warn users about unexpected links and files related to this product until it is patched.
Affected products and versions
| Vendor | Product | Affected versions | Fixed in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foxit | Foxit Reader | 12.1.3.15356 | Not stated |
Version data comes from the organisation that assigned the CVE. Confirm against the vendor advisory before deciding you are unaffected.
How the severity score breaks down
- Attack vector
- NetworkCan be exploited remotely over a network, including the internet.
- Attack complexity
- LowNo special conditions are needed; the attack works reliably.
- Privileges required
- NoneNo account or login is needed.
- User interaction
- RequiredA user must take an action such as opening a file or link.
- Scope
- UnchangedImpact stays within the vulnerable component.
- Confidentiality
- HighAll data handled by the component can be read.
- Integrity
- HighData or code can be modified at will.
- Availability
- HighThe component can be taken down completely.
Vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H. Scored by NVD.
| Scoring system | Score | Severity | Scored by |
|---|---|---|---|
| CVSS 3.1 | 8.8 | High | CNA (cisco.com) |
| CVSS 3.1 | 8.8 | High | NVD |
Official description
A code execution vulnerability exists in the Javascript saveAs API of Foxit Reader 12.1.3.15356. A specially crafted malformed file can create arbitrary files, which can lead to remote code execution. An attacker needs to trick the user into opening the malicious file to trigger this vulnerability. Exploitation is also possible if a user visits a specially crafted, malicious site if the browser plugin extension is enabled.
Source: the CVE record as published by its numbering authority, via NVD and CVE.org.
The underlying weakness: Externally Controlled Reference to a Resource in Another Sphere
The product uses an externally controlled name or reference that resolves to a resource that is outside of the intended control sphere.
More Externally Controlled Reference to a Resource in Another Sphere vulnerabilities (CWE-610)
Timeline
- CVE record published.
- Record last changed materially (score, affected products, status or references).
References
Technical write-ups (may include proof of concept)
- talosintelligence.com/vulnerability_reports/TALOS-2023-1832Exploit, Third Party Advisory
Other references
Other vulnerabilities in Foxit Reader
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- 8.8 High severity
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- 8.2 High severity
- 8.8 High severity
Recent Externally Controlled Reference to a Resource in Another Sphere vulnerabilities
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- 8.1 High severity
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