CVE-2023-40472: PDF-XChange Editor JavaScript String Untrusted Pointer Dereference Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

Published May 3, 2024

Updated

PDF-XChange Editor JavaScript String Untrusted Pointer Dereference Remote Code Execution Vulnerability. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of PDF-XChange Editor. 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 strings. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of a user-supplied value prior to dereferencing it as a pointer. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current process. Was ZDI-CAN-20730.

Affected Software

3 affected components

PDF-XChange PDF-XChange Editor

PDF-XChange Pdf-tools=9.5.368.0

PDF-XChange PDF-XChange Editor=9.5.368.0

Event History

May 3, 2024

CVE Published

via MITRE·02:11 AM

Data Sourced

via MITRE·02:11 AM

DescriptionSeverityWeakness

Mar 25, 2025

Advisory Published

via ZDI·12:47 AM

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the severity of CVE-2023-40472?

The severity of CVE-2023-40472 is considered critical due to its potential for remote code execution.

How do I fix CVE-2023-40472?

To fix CVE-2023-40472, update your PDF-XChange Editor to the latest version provided by Tracker Software.

What are the potential impacts of CVE-2023-40472?

The potential impacts of CVE-2023-40472 include unauthorized execution of arbitrary code on affected systems.

Who is affected by CVE-2023-40472?

Users of PDF-XChange Editor are affected by CVE-2023-40472 if they have versions vulnerable to this exploit.

Does CVE-2023-40472 require user interaction to be exploited?

Yes, CVE-2023-40472 requires user interaction for the exploit to be carried out.