CVE-2024-9256 is a vulnerability classified as CWE-125 (Out-of-Bounds Read) found in Foxit PDF Reader version 2024.2.3.25184. The vulnerability specifically affects the processing of AcroForms, which are interactive form elements within PDF documents. The root cause is insufficient validation of user-supplied input data, leading to the application reading memory beyond the bounds of an allocated buffer. This out-of-bounds read can result in the disclosure of sensitive information from the process memory space. Although the vulnerability itself does not allow direct code execution, it can be exploited in combination with other vulnerabilities to execute arbitrary code within the context of the Foxit PDF Reader process. Exploitation requires user interaction, such as opening a crafted malicious PDF file or visiting a malicious webpage that triggers the vulnerability. The CVSS v3.0 base score is 3.3, reflecting low severity due to the limited confidentiality impact, no integrity or availability impact, local attack vector (user must open the file), low complexity, no privileges required, and user interaction needed. No public exploits or active exploitation in the wild have been reported to date. The vulnerability was reserved on 2024-09-26 and published on 2024-11-22. No patches are currently linked, so users should monitor Foxit's advisories for updates. This vulnerability was identified by the Zero Day Initiative (ZDI) under the identifier ZDI-CAN-25267.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-9256 is the potential disclosure of sensitive information from the memory of the Foxit PDF Reader process. This could include data such as parts of other open documents, user credentials, or other sensitive content residing in memory. While the direct impact on confidentiality is limited, the vulnerability can be leveraged as part of a multi-stage attack chain to achieve arbitrary code execution, which would significantly increase the risk to affected systems. Organizations relying on Foxit PDF Reader for document handling, especially those processing sensitive or confidential information, face risks of data leakage and potential compromise if combined with other vulnerabilities. The requirement for user interaction reduces the likelihood of widespread automated exploitation but does not eliminate targeted attacks, particularly in environments where users frequently open untrusted PDFs. The vulnerability does not affect system integrity or availability directly, and no denial-of-service conditions are reported. The low CVSS score reflects the limited standalone impact, but the threat remains relevant due to the possibility of chaining with other exploits.

To mitigate CVE-2024-9256, organizations should implement the following specific measures: 1) Monitor Foxit Software’s official channels for patches or updates addressing this vulnerability and apply them promptly once available. 2) Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to restrict Foxit PDF Reader’s ability to access sensitive system resources and limit the impact of potential exploitation. 3) Educate users about the risks of opening PDF files from untrusted or unknown sources, emphasizing cautious handling of email attachments and downloads. 4) Use network-level protections such as email filtering and web gateway controls to block or quarantine suspicious PDF files before reaching end users. 5) Consider deploying endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting anomalous behaviors associated with exploitation attempts, including unusual memory reads or process injections. 6) Where feasible, restrict the use of Foxit PDF Reader to trusted internal documents and encourage the use of alternative PDF viewers with a strong security track record. 7) Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify if this or related vulnerabilities are exploitable in the organizational environment. These targeted steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on user education, layered defenses, and proactive monitoring tailored to the nature of this vulnerability.