CVE-2024-9757 is a security vulnerability classified under CWE-125 (Out-of-bounds Read) affecting Tungsten Automation Power PDF version 5.0.0.10.0.23307. The vulnerability is rooted in the JP2 (JPEG 2000) file parsing component, where insufficient validation of user-supplied data leads to reading memory beyond the allocated buffer. This out-of-bounds read can cause disclosure of sensitive information from the process memory space, potentially leaking confidential data. While the vulnerability itself does not directly allow arbitrary code execution, it can be leveraged in combination with other vulnerabilities to escalate to code execution within the context of the affected process. Exploitation requires user interaction, such as opening a maliciously crafted JP2 file or visiting a malicious webpage that triggers the vulnerable parser. The attack vector is local (AV:L), with low complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), and user interaction necessary (UI:R). The vulnerability does not impact integrity or availability but compromises confidentiality to a limited extent. No patches have been linked yet, and no known exploits are reported in the wild. The vulnerability was assigned by ZDI (ZDI-CAN-24473) and published on November 22, 2024.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-9757 is information disclosure, which could lead to leakage of sensitive data residing in the memory of the Power PDF process. While the direct impact is limited, attackers could combine this vulnerability with other flaws to achieve arbitrary code execution, significantly increasing the threat level. Organizations relying on Tungsten Automation Power PDF for document processing, especially those handling sensitive or confidential information, may face risks of data leakage and potential system compromise if chained exploits are developed. The requirement for user interaction reduces the likelihood of widespread automated exploitation, but targeted attacks against high-value users remain a concern. The vulnerability could undermine trust in document handling workflows and expose organizations to compliance and privacy violations if sensitive data is leaked.

Organizations should implement the following mitigations: 1) Restrict the opening of JP2 files from untrusted or unknown sources, especially in environments using affected Power PDF versions. 2) Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing to limit the impact of potential exploitation within the Power PDF process. 3) Monitor for updates and patches from Tungsten Automation and apply them promptly once available. 4) Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious files and visiting untrusted websites. 5) Use network-level protections such as web filtering to block access to malicious sites that could host exploit files. 6) Consider disabling or limiting JP2 file support in Power PDF if feasible until a patch is released. 7) Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. These measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on controlling the attack vector, limiting exposure, and preparing for rapid patch deployment.