CVE-2018-17698: Foxit PhantomPDF richValue Use-After-Free Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

Published Jan 24, 2019
·
Updated

This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable installations of Foxit PhantomPDF 9.2.0.9297. User interaction is required to exploit this vulnerability in that the target must visit a malicious page or open a malicious file. The specific flaw exists within the handling of the richValue property of a text field. The issue results from the lack of validating the existence of an object prior to performing operations on the object. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current process. Was ZDI-CAN-7067.

Other sources

This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable installations of Foxit PhantomPDF. User interaction is required to exploit this vulnerability in that the target must visit a malicious page or open a malicious file. The specific flaw exists within the handling of the richValue property of a text field. The issue results from the lack of validating the existence of an object prior to performing operations on the object. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current process.

Affected Software

4 affected components
Foxit PhantomPDF
Foxitsoftware Phantompdf<=9.2.0.9297
Foxitsoftware Reader<=9.2.0.9297
Microsoft Windows

Event History

Jan 24, 2019
CVE Published
via MITRE·04:00 AM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·04:00 AM
DescriptionWeakness
Jan 29, 2025
Advisory Published
via ZDI·11:29 AM

Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of CVE-2018-17698?

CVE-2018-17698 has a high severity rating due to its potential for remote code execution.

2

How do I fix CVE-2018-17698?

To fix CVE-2018-17698, update Foxit PhantomPDF to the latest version provided by Foxit Software.

3

Which versions of Foxit software are affected by CVE-2018-17698?

CVE-2018-17698 affects Foxit PhantomPDF version 9.2.0.9297 and earlier.

4

Is user interaction required to exploit CVE-2018-17698?

Yes, user interaction is required as the target must visit a malicious page or open a malicious file.

5

What type of vulnerability is CVE-2018-17698?

CVE-2018-17698 is classified as a remote code execution vulnerability.

Contact

SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
132 Wickham Terrace
Fortitude Valley,
QLD 4006, Australia
info@secalerts.co
By using SecAlerts services, you agree to our services end-user license agreement. This website is safeguarded by reCAPTCHA and governed by the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. All names, logos, and brands of products are owned by their respective owners, and any usage of these names, logos, and brands for identification purposes only does not imply endorsement. If you possess any content that requires removal, please get in touch with us.
© 2026 SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
ABN: 70 645 966 203, ACN: 645 966 203