CVE-2024-25575 is a type confusion vulnerability classified under CWE-843, affecting Foxit Reader version 2024.1.0.23997. The flaw occurs due to improper handling of a Lock object within the PDF reader's JavaScript engine. When a malicious PDF containing specially crafted JavaScript is opened, the vulnerability can be triggered, causing memory corruption. This memory corruption can be leveraged by an attacker to execute arbitrary code on the victim's system. The attack vector includes both opening a malicious PDF file and visiting a malicious website if the Foxit Reader browser plugin is enabled, which can automatically process PDF content. The vulnerability requires no privileges and only user interaction (opening the file or visiting the site). The CVSS v3.1 score is 8.8 (high), reflecting network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, user interaction needed, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. No patches are currently available, and no known exploits have been observed in the wild. The vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the widespread use of Foxit Reader in enterprise and government environments, especially in Europe where PDF workflows are common. The browser plugin vector increases the attack surface, particularly in environments where browser-based PDF viewing is enabled. This vulnerability could be exploited for espionage, data theft, or disruption of critical services.

The vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems, compromising confidentiality, integrity, and availability. For European organizations, this could lead to data breaches involving sensitive personal or corporate data, disruption of business operations, and potential lateral movement within networks. Given the reliance on PDFs for document exchange in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government, exploitation could result in significant operational and reputational damage. The browser plugin attack vector increases risk in organizations that enable PDF viewing within browsers, potentially allowing drive-by attacks without explicit file downloads. The lack of a patch means organizations remain exposed until mitigations are applied. The impact is particularly critical for entities handling regulated data under GDPR, as breaches could lead to regulatory penalties. Additionally, critical infrastructure operators using Foxit Reader may face risks of sabotage or espionage.

1. Immediately disable JavaScript execution within Foxit Reader settings to prevent malicious script execution. 2. Disable or uninstall the Foxit Reader browser plugin to eliminate the drive-by attack vector. 3. Advise users to avoid opening PDF files from untrusted or unknown sources. 4. Implement network-level protections such as blocking access to known malicious URLs and employing web filtering to prevent access to malicious sites hosting crafted PDFs. 5. Monitor endpoint behavior for signs of exploitation attempts, including unusual memory or process activity related to Foxit Reader. 6. Prepare to deploy patches promptly once Foxit releases an update addressing this vulnerability. 7. Use application whitelisting to restrict execution of unauthorized code. 8. Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited PDFs and visiting suspicious websites. 9. Employ sandboxing or isolated environments for opening untrusted PDF files. 10. Review and tighten browser security settings to limit plugin capabilities and script execution.