#VU80592 Heap-based buffer overflow in Power PDF Advanced - CVE-2023-42038

Vulnerability identifier: #VU80592

Vulnerability risk: High

CVSSv4.0: 6.1 [CVSS:4.0/AV:N/AC:L/AT:N/PR:N/UI:A/VC:H/VI:H/VA:H/SC:N/SI:N/SA:N/E:U/U:Amber]

CVE-ID: CVE-2023-42038

CWE-ID: CWE-122

Exploitation vector: Network

Exploit availability: No

Vulnerable software:
Power PDF Advanced
Client/Desktop applications / Office applications

Vendor: Kofax

Description

The vulnerability allows a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code on the target system.

The vulnerability exists due to a boundary error within the parsing of PDF files. A remote attacker can trick a victim to open a specially crafted file, trigger a heap-based buffer overflow and execute arbitrary code on the target system.

Successful exploitation of this vulnerability may result in complete compromise of vulnerable system.

Mitigation
Install updates from vendor's website.

Vulnerable software versions

Power PDF Advanced: before 5.0.0.12

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External links
https://www.zerodayinitiative.com/advisories/ZDI-23-1394/
https://docshield.kofax.com/PowerPDF/en_US/5.0.0-3uoz7ssq2b/print/ReadMe-KofaxPowerPDFAdvanced-5.0.0.12.htm

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Q & A

Can this vulnerability be exploited remotely?

Yes. This vulnerability can be exploited by a remote non-authenticated attacker via the Internet.

Is there known malware, which exploits this vulnerability?

No. We are not aware of malware exploiting this vulnerability.