CVE-2024-9252 is a use-after-free vulnerability categorized under CWE-416 affecting Foxit PDF Reader version 2024.2.2.25170. The vulnerability exists in the handling of AcroForms, a feature used for interactive PDF forms. Specifically, the software fails to verify whether an object still exists before performing operations on it, leading to a use-after-free condition. This memory management flaw allows attackers to access freed memory, potentially disclosing sensitive information stored in that memory region. Exploitation requires user interaction, such as opening a maliciously crafted PDF or visiting a malicious web page that triggers the vulnerability. Although the direct impact is information disclosure, the vulnerability can be leveraged in combination with other security flaws to execute arbitrary code within the context of the Foxit PDF Reader process. The CVSS v3.0 base score is 3.3, indicating low severity primarily due to the requirement for user interaction, local attack vector, and limited confidentiality impact. No patches or known exploits have been reported at the time of publication. The vulnerability was assigned by the Zero Day Initiative (ZDI) as ZDI-CAN-24491 and publicly disclosed on November 22, 2024.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-9252 is information disclosure, which can compromise the confidentiality of sensitive data processed or stored by Foxit PDF Reader. While the vulnerability itself does not directly allow code execution or denial of service, the disclosed information could assist attackers in crafting further exploits, potentially leading to privilege escalation or remote code execution when combined with other vulnerabilities. Organizations relying on Foxit PDF Reader for document handling, especially those processing sensitive or confidential information, face increased risk of data leakage. The requirement for user interaction limits the scope of exploitation but does not eliminate risk, particularly in environments where users frequently open untrusted PDFs. The vulnerability could be exploited in targeted attacks or phishing campaigns. Since Foxit PDF Reader is widely used globally, especially in enterprise and government sectors, the impact could be significant if chained with other vulnerabilities or used in advanced persistent threat (APT) scenarios.

To mitigate CVE-2024-9252, organizations should: 1) Monitor Foxit's official channels for security updates and apply patches promptly once available. 2) Implement strict email and web filtering to block or quarantine suspicious PDF files and links, reducing the chance of users opening malicious documents. 3) Educate users about the risks of opening PDFs from untrusted sources and encourage cautious behavior. 4) Employ application whitelisting or sandboxing techniques for PDF readers to limit the impact of potential exploitation. 5) Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to monitor for anomalous behavior related to PDF reader processes. 6) Consider deploying alternative PDF readers with a stronger security track record if patching is delayed. 7) Regularly audit and restrict user permissions to minimize the damage from any potential compromise. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on proactive user education, layered defenses, and monitoring tailored to the nature of this vulnerability.