CVE-2021-40420

HIGHCVSS 8.8/10EPSS 4.39%

Last modified

CVE-2021-40420 is a high-severity vulnerability rated 8.8/10 on the CVSS scale. A use-after-free vulnerability exists in the JavaScript engine of Foxit Software’s PDF Reader, version 11.1.0.52543. A specially-crafted PDF document can trigger the reuse of previously freed memory, which can lead to arbitrary code execution. EPSS estimates a 4.39% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days.

Description

A use-after-free vulnerability exists in the JavaScript engine of Foxit Software’s PDF Reader, version 11.1.0.52543. A specially-crafted PDF document can trigger the reuse of previously freed memory, which can lead to arbitrary code execution. An attacker needs to trick the user to open the malicious file to trigger this vulnerability. Exploitation is also possible if a user visits a specially-crafted, malicious site if the browser plugin extension is enabled.

Metrics

CVSS 3.1
8.8/10

CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H

EPSS Probability
4.39%

90.1th percentile

Probability of exploitation in the next 30 days. Learn more

Weakness Enumeration

Affected Software

VendorProductVersions
FoxitPdf Reader11.1.0.52543

References

Timeline

Published
Last Modified
Status
Modified

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CVE-2021-40420?
A use-after-free vulnerability exists in the JavaScript engine of Foxit Software’s PDF Reader, version 11.1.0.52543. A specially-crafted PDF document can trigger the reuse of previously freed memory, which can lead to arbitrary code execution. An attacker needs to trick the user to open the malicious file to trigger this vulnerability. Exploitation is also possible if a user visits a specially-crafted, malicious site if the browser plugin extension is enabled.
How severe is CVE-2021-40420?
CVE-2021-40420 has a CVSS score of 8.8/10 (HIGH severity). The EPSS model estimates a 4.39% probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.
How do I fix CVE-2021-40420?
Check the vendor references and advisories linked above for patched versions and mitigation guidance. You can also run a Strix scan to test if your systems are affected.

Are you affected by CVE-2021-40420?

Run a free Strix scan to check your systems for this vulnerability.

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Source: NVD / NIST