CVE-2024-9250 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416, discovered in Foxit PDF Reader version 2024.2.2.25170. The vulnerability specifically affects the handling of AcroForms, a feature used to create interactive forms within PDF documents. The root cause is the failure to validate the existence of an object before performing operations on it, which leads to a use-after-free condition. This memory corruption flaw can be exploited by an attacker who crafts a malicious PDF file or web page containing a malicious PDF, which when opened or viewed by the user, triggers the vulnerability. Exploitation allows arbitrary code execution within the context of the Foxit Reader process, potentially enabling the attacker to take control of the affected system. The vulnerability requires user interaction (opening or viewing a malicious file) but does not require any prior authentication or elevated privileges. The CVSS v3.0 base score is 7.8, indicating high severity, with attack vector local (user must open file), low attack complexity, no privileges required, user interaction required, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. As of the publication date, no known exploits have been observed in the wild, but the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the widespread use of Foxit Reader in enterprise and consumer environments. The lack of a patch at the time of reporting means users must rely on mitigations and cautious handling of PDF files until an update is released.

The impact of CVE-2024-9250 is significant for organizations worldwide that use Foxit PDF Reader, especially version 2024.2.2.25170. Successful exploitation can lead to remote code execution, allowing attackers to run arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the PDF Reader. This can result in full system compromise, data theft, installation of malware, or lateral movement within a network. The requirement for user interaction (opening a malicious file) means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be effective attack vectors. Sectors that frequently handle PDF documents, such as finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure, are at heightened risk. The vulnerability threatens confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems, potentially leading to data breaches, operational disruption, and reputational damage. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as proof-of-concept exploits could emerge rapidly once public disclosure occurs.

To mitigate CVE-2024-9250, organizations should: 1) Monitor Foxit Software announcements closely and apply security patches immediately once released for version 2024.2.2.25170 or affected versions. 2) Implement strict email and web filtering to block or quarantine suspicious PDF files, especially from untrusted sources. 3) Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected PDF attachments and encourage verification of file sources. 4) Use application whitelisting or sandboxing techniques to restrict Foxit Reader’s ability to execute arbitrary code or access sensitive system resources. 5) Consider temporarily disabling or restricting the use of Foxit Reader for high-risk user groups until a patch is available. 6) Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 7) Review and harden PDF handling policies and consider alternative PDF readers with a strong security track record if patching is delayed. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on proactive user education, filtering, and containment strategies tailored to the nature of this vulnerability.