CVE-2024-25575 is a type confusion vulnerability (CWE-843) identified in Foxit Reader version 2024.1.0.23997. The flaw stems from the improper handling of a Lock object within the PDF reader's JavaScript engine. When a malicious PDF containing specially crafted JavaScript is opened, or when a user visits a malicious website with the Foxit Reader browser plugin enabled, the vulnerability can be triggered. This leads to memory corruption, which attackers can leverage to execute arbitrary code on the victim's system. The vulnerability requires no privileges and no prior authentication but does require user interaction to open the malicious document or visit the malicious site. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, and user interaction needed. Although no public exploits are currently known, the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the widespread use of Foxit Reader in enterprise environments. The attack surface includes both standalone Foxit Reader installations and browser plugin users, increasing the scope of potential victims. The vulnerability highlights the risks associated with embedded JavaScript in PDFs and the importance of secure handling of complex object types within PDF readers.

For European organizations, this vulnerability presents a critical risk to endpoint security, particularly in industries where PDF documents are extensively used for communication, contracts, and documentation, such as finance, legal, healthcare, and government sectors. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution, enabling attackers to install malware, steal sensitive data, or disrupt operations. The compromise of confidentiality, integrity, and availability could result in data breaches, regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR), financial losses, and reputational damage. The fact that exploitation requires only user interaction (opening a PDF or visiting a malicious site) increases the likelihood of successful attacks via phishing or drive-by downloads. Organizations relying on Foxit Reader’s browser plugin face additional risk vectors. The vulnerability could also be leveraged in targeted attacks against critical infrastructure or high-value targets within Europe, amplifying its potential impact.

1. Immediately monitor Foxit’s official channels for security patches addressing CVE-2024-25575 and apply updates as soon as they become available. 2. Until patches are released, disable JavaScript execution within Foxit Reader to prevent exploitation via malicious embedded scripts. 3. Disable or uninstall the Foxit Reader browser plugin to reduce exposure from drive-by attacks on malicious websites. 4. Implement email filtering and sandboxing to detect and block malicious PDF attachments before reaching end users. 5. Conduct user awareness training focused on the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious PDF files and visiting untrusted websites. 6. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 7. Use application control or whitelisting to restrict execution of unauthorized code spawned by Foxit Reader processes. 8. Review and tighten network segmentation to limit lateral movement in case of compromise. 9. Regularly audit installed software versions across the organization to identify vulnerable Foxit Reader instances. 10. Consider alternative PDF readers with a lower attack surface or better security track record until the vulnerability is fully mitigated.