CVE-2022-28675
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability in Foxit PDF Reader allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by tricking users into opening malicious PDF files or visiting malicious web pages. The flaw exists in how the software handles Annotation objects without proper validation, enabling code execution in the current process context. Users of affected Foxit PDF Reader versions are at risk.
💻 Affected Systems
- Foxit PDF Reader
📦 What is this software?
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Complete system compromise via remote code execution, allowing attackers to install malware, steal data, or gain persistent access.
Likely Case
Malware installation or data theft through targeted phishing campaigns using malicious PDF attachments.
If Mitigated
Limited impact with proper endpoint protection, user training, and network segmentation preventing successful exploitation.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires user interaction but is straightforward once malicious content is delivered. ZDI advisory suggests weaponization is likely given the nature of the vulnerability.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: 11.2.2 or later
Vendor Advisory: https://www.foxit.com/support/security-bulletins.html
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Open Foxit PDF Reader
2. Go to Help > Check for Updates
3. Follow prompts to update to version 11.2.2 or later
4. Restart the application
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Disable JavaScript in Foxit Reader
windowsPrevents JavaScript-based exploitation vectors
Open Foxit Reader > File > Preferences > JavaScript > Uncheck 'Enable JavaScript'
Use Protected View
windowsOpen PDFs in sandboxed protected view mode
File > Preferences > General > Check 'Open cross-domain PDF files in Protected View'
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Block PDF files from untrusted sources at email/web gateways
- Use alternative PDF reader software temporarily
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check Foxit Reader version: Help > About Foxit Reader. If version is 11.2.1.53537 or earlier, system is vulnerable.Check Version:
wmic product where "name like 'Foxit%Reader%'" get versionVerify Fix Applied:
Verify version is 11.2.2 or later in Help > About Foxit Reader.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Foxit Reader crash logs with memory access violations
- Unexpected child processes spawned from Foxit Reader
Network Indicators:
- Downloads of PDF files from suspicious sources followed by unusual outbound connections
SIEM Query:
source="*foxit*" AND (event_type="crash" OR process_name="foxitreader.exe" AND parent_process!="explorer.exe")