CVE-2023-28744 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416 found in Foxit Software's Foxit Reader version 12.1.1.15289. The flaw exists in the JavaScript engine component responsible for handling PDF form fields. Specifically, an attacker can craft a malicious PDF document that manipulates form fields of a particular type to trigger the reuse of memory that has already been freed. This memory corruption can lead to arbitrary code execution within the context of the user running Foxit Reader. The vulnerability can be exploited by convincing a user to open a malicious PDF file or, if the Foxit Reader browser plugin is enabled, by visiting a malicious website hosting such a crafted PDF. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.8, reflecting a network attack vector with low attack complexity, no privileges required, but user interaction is necessary. The impact includes full compromise of confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system. No patches were linked at the time of disclosure, and no known exploits in the wild have been reported. The vulnerability is critical because it allows remote code execution without requiring elevated privileges, making it a significant threat to users and organizations relying on Foxit Reader for PDF processing.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2023-28744 is substantial. Many enterprises, government agencies, and critical infrastructure operators use Foxit Reader due to its lightweight nature and PDF handling capabilities. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to data breaches, espionage, ransomware deployment, or disruption of services. The requirement for user interaction (opening a malicious PDF or visiting a malicious site with the plugin enabled) means phishing campaigns or drive-by downloads could be effective attack vectors. Organizations handling sensitive or regulated data (e.g., finance, healthcare, government) face heightened risks of confidentiality and integrity breaches. The availability of systems could also be compromised, impacting business continuity. The lack of a patch at disclosure increases the window of exposure, necessitating immediate mitigation efforts. The browser plugin vector expands the attack surface, especially in environments where users browse untrusted sites or receive PDFs via email.

1. Immediately disable the Foxit Reader browser plugin to eliminate the drive-by exploitation vector until a patch is available. 2. Advise users to avoid opening PDF files from untrusted or unknown sources, especially email attachments or downloads. 3. Implement email filtering and sandboxing solutions to detect and block malicious PDFs before reaching end users. 4. Monitor for updates from Foxit Software and apply patches promptly once released. 5. Employ endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 6. Conduct user awareness training focused on phishing and safe handling of PDF documents. 7. Consider using alternative PDF readers with a better security track record or that have already patched this vulnerability. 8. Restrict execution privileges of Foxit Reader processes using application control or sandboxing to limit potential damage from exploitation.