CVE-2022-37389
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability in Foxit PDF Reader allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by tricking users into opening malicious PDF files containing specially crafted AcroForms. The flaw exists due to improper validation of object existence before performing operations, leading to use-after-free conditions. 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 with attacker gaining the same privileges as the current user, potentially leading to data theft, ransomware deployment, or lateral movement within the network.
Likely Case
Malware installation on individual workstations, credential theft, or data exfiltration from the compromised system.
If Mitigated
Limited impact with proper application sandboxing, limited user privileges, and network segmentation preventing lateral movement.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires user interaction but is straightforward once malicious PDF is opened. ZDI has confirmed the vulnerability and exploitation details.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: 11.2.3 or later
Vendor Advisory: https://www.foxit.com/support/security-bulletins.html
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Download latest Foxit PDF Reader from official website
2. Uninstall current version
3. Install updated version 11.2.3 or later
4. Restart system
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Disable JavaScript in Foxit Reader
windowsPrevents exploitation of JavaScript-based attack vectors
Open Foxit Reader > File > Preferences > JavaScript > Uncheck 'Enable JavaScript'
Use Protected View
windowsOpen PDFs in restricted mode to limit damage
Open Foxit Reader > File > Preferences > Trust Manager > Check 'Enable Safe Reading Mode'
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Restrict PDF file handling to alternative PDF readers without this vulnerability
- Implement application whitelisting to block execution of unauthorized code
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check Foxit Reader version via Help > About. If version is 11.2.2.53575 or earlier, system is vulnerable.Check Version:
wmic product where name="Foxit Reader" get versionVerify Fix Applied:
Verify version is 11.2.3 or later via Help > About. Test with known safe PDF files to ensure functionality.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Foxit Reader crash logs with memory access violations
- Unexpected child processes spawned from Foxit Reader
- Network connections initiated by Foxit Reader process
Network Indicators:
- Outbound connections from Foxit Reader to unknown IPs
- DNS requests for suspicious domains following PDF opening
SIEM Query:
process_name:"FoxitReader.exe" AND (event_id:1000 OR parent_process_name:"FoxitReader.exe")