CVE-2024-25648 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416 found in Foxit Reader version 2024.1.0.23997. The flaw arises from improper handling of a ComboBox widget within the application when processing JavaScript embedded in PDF documents. Specifically, a previously freed object is reused, causing memory corruption that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code in the context of the user running Foxit Reader. The attack vector requires the victim to open a maliciously crafted PDF file containing JavaScript or, alternatively, to visit a malicious website if the Foxit Reader browser plugin extension is enabled, which can trigger the vulnerability remotely. The vulnerability does not require any privileges or authentication but does require user interaction. The CVSS v3.1 score is 8.8 (high), reflecting the vulnerability's network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, user interaction required, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. No patches have been published at the time of disclosure, and no known exploits are currently in the wild. The vulnerability poses a significant risk as it can lead to full system compromise, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially installing malware, stealing data, or disrupting operations.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-25648 can be severe. Foxit Reader is widely used across enterprises, government agencies, and critical infrastructure sectors for handling PDF documents. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, resulting in data breaches, ransomware deployment, or disruption of business-critical processes. The vulnerability affects confidentiality by enabling attackers to access sensitive information, integrity by allowing modification or corruption of data, and availability by potentially causing application or system crashes. Organizations with heavy reliance on PDF workflows, such as legal, financial, healthcare, and public administration sectors, face elevated risks. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be leveraged to deliver malicious PDFs. Additionally, if the browser plugin is enabled, drive-by attacks via malicious websites become possible, increasing the attack surface. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive mitigation, but the high CVSS score indicates that once exploited, the consequences could be critical.

To mitigate CVE-2024-25648 effectively, European organizations should: 1) Monitor Foxit’s official channels closely for patches and apply updates immediately once available. 2) Disable JavaScript execution within Foxit Reader settings to prevent malicious script execution embedded in PDFs. 3) Remove or disable the Foxit Reader browser plugin extension to eliminate the drive-by exploitation vector. 4) Implement strict email filtering and attachment scanning to block or quarantine suspicious PDF files. 5) Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected PDF attachments and visiting untrusted websites. 6) Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 7) Use application whitelisting to restrict execution of unauthorized code. 8) Conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing focusing on PDF handling applications. These measures go beyond generic advice by targeting the specific exploitation vectors and reducing the attack surface related to Foxit Reader usage.