CVE-2023-41257 is a type confusion vulnerability classified under CWE-843 found in Foxit Reader version 12.1.3.15356. The flaw stems from the application incorrectly handling field value properties within PDF documents, specifically when processing embedded JavaScript code. This type confusion leads to memory corruption, which an attacker can leverage to execute arbitrary code on the victim’s system. The attack vector involves a maliciously crafted PDF containing JavaScript that exploits this vulnerability when opened by the user. Additionally, if the Foxit Reader browser plugin is enabled, simply visiting a malicious website hosting such a PDF can trigger the exploit. The vulnerability does not require any privileges or authentication but does require user interaction (opening the file or visiting the malicious site). The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with network attack vector and low attack complexity. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the potential for exploitation is significant given the widespread use of Foxit Reader in enterprise and consumer environments. The vulnerability highlights the risks associated with embedded JavaScript in PDFs and the importance of secure handling of document properties.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the widespread use of Foxit Reader in both corporate and government sectors for document handling. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution, allowing attackers to gain control over affected systems, steal sensitive information, disrupt operations, or deploy further malware such as ransomware. The impact is particularly severe for sectors handling sensitive data, including finance, healthcare, legal, and public administration. The requirement for user interaction means phishing campaigns or malicious websites could be used to deliver the exploit, increasing the attack surface. Organizations relying on Foxit Reader’s browser plugin are at additional risk from drive-by attacks. Given the high CVSS score and the critical nature of the vulnerability, unpatched systems could become prime targets for cybercriminals and advanced persistent threat actors aiming to compromise European digital infrastructure.

1. Apply security patches from Foxit as soon as they become available to address this vulnerability. 2. Temporarily disable the Foxit Reader browser plugin to prevent drive-by exploitation via malicious websites. 3. Configure Foxit Reader to disable or restrict JavaScript execution within PDF files, reducing the attack surface. 4. Educate users to be cautious when opening PDF attachments from unknown or untrusted sources and to avoid visiting suspicious websites. 5. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions with behavior-based detection to identify and block exploitation attempts. 6. Implement network-level protections such as web filtering and email security gateways to block malicious PDFs and URLs. 7. Regularly audit and inventory software versions across the organization to ensure timely patch management. 8. Consider sandboxing PDF viewers or opening suspicious documents in isolated environments to limit potential damage.