CVE-2024-9255 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416 found in Foxit PDF Reader version 2024.2.3.25184. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of Annotation objects within the PDF reader, where the software fails to verify the existence of an object before performing operations on it. This flaw can be exploited by remote attackers who craft malicious PDF files or web pages containing malicious PDF content. When a user opens such a file or visits a malicious page, the attacker can trigger the use-after-free condition, leading to arbitrary code execution within the context of the Foxit PDF Reader process. The vulnerability requires user interaction but does not require any privileges or authentication, making it accessible to a broad range of attackers. The CVSS v3.0 base score is 7.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low attack complexity and no privileges required. Although no known exploits have been reported in the wild yet, the nature of the vulnerability and the widespread use of Foxit PDF Reader make it a significant threat. The vulnerability was reserved on September 26, 2024, and published on November 22, 2024. No official patches were listed at the time of this report, so users must rely on mitigations until a fix is released.

The impact of CVE-2024-9255 is substantial for organizations worldwide using Foxit PDF Reader 2024.2.3.25184. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary code remotely, potentially leading to full system compromise under the context of the user running the PDF reader. This can result in data theft, installation of malware or ransomware, lateral movement within networks, and disruption of business operations. Since PDF readers are commonly used in enterprises, government agencies, and critical infrastructure, the vulnerability poses a risk to confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive information and systems. The requirement for user interaction limits mass exploitation but targeted spear-phishing campaigns could be highly effective. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but also means attackers may develop exploits soon after patch availability. Organizations with high reliance on Foxit PDF Reader, especially in sectors like finance, healthcare, and government, face elevated risk.

1. Immediately monitor Foxit’s official channels for patches addressing CVE-2024-9255 and apply updates as soon as they become available. 2. Until a patch is released, restrict usage of Foxit PDF Reader 2024.2.3.25184, especially in high-risk environments. 3. Employ application whitelisting to prevent execution of unauthorized code spawned by the PDF reader. 4. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to monitor for suspicious behavior related to PDF processing and annotation handling. 5. Educate users to avoid opening PDFs from untrusted or unknown sources and to be cautious with email attachments and links. 6. Consider sandboxing PDF reader applications or opening PDFs in isolated environments to contain potential exploitation. 7. Implement network-level protections such as blocking known malicious domains and scanning email attachments for malicious content. 8. Review and harden user privileges to minimize impact if exploitation occurs, avoiding running PDF readers with administrative rights. 9. Maintain up-to-date backups to enable recovery in case of compromise. 10. Conduct threat hunting for indicators of compromise related to PDF-based attacks targeting this vulnerability.