CVE-2018-3956

CVE-2018-3956 is a high-severity vulnerability in Foxitsoftware Phantompdf with a CVSS 3.x base score of 7.1. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score of 50% places it in the 99th percentile, indicating an elevated likelihood of exploitation. The underlying weakness is classified as CWE-125.

Key facts

Description

An exploitable out-of-bounds read vulnerability exists in the handling of certain XFA element attributes of Foxit Software's PDF Reader version 9.1.0.5096. A specially crafted PDF document can trigger an out-of-bounds read, which can disclose sensitive memory content and aid in exploitation when coupled with another vulnerability. An attacker needs to trick the user to open the malicious file to trigger this vulnerability. If the browser plugin extension is enabled, visiting a malicious site can also trigger the vulnerability.

Frequently asked questions

What is CVE-2018-3956?
An exploitable out-of-bounds read vulnerability exists in the handling of certain XFA element attributes of Foxit Software's PDF Reader version 9.1.0.5096. A specially crafted PDF document can trigger an out-of-bounds read, which can disclose sensitive memory content and aid in exploitation when coupled with another vulnerability. An attacker needs to trick the user to open the malicious file to trigger this vulnerability. If the browser plugin extension is enabled, visiting a malicious site can also trigger the vulnerability.
How severe is CVE-2018-3956?
CVE-2018-3956 has a CVSS 3.x base score of 7.1, rated high severity. It is exploitable over local access with low attack complexity, requires no privileges and user interaction. Impact on confidentiality is high, integrity none, and availability high.
Is CVE-2018-3956 being actively exploited?
It is not currently listed in CISA's KEV catalog. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score is 50% (99th percentile), an estimate of the probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.
What products are affected by CVE-2018-3956?
CVE-2018-3956 primarily affects Foxitsoftware Phantompdf. In total, 2 product configurations (CPEs) are listed as vulnerable; see the affected-products list for the exact versions.
How do I fix CVE-2018-3956?
Review the linked vendor and NVD advisories for patched versions and mitigations, then upgrade or apply the recommended workaround. Given its high severity, prioritise patching exposed systems.
When was CVE-2018-3956 published?
CVE-2018-3956 was published on 2019-01-30 and last updated on 2026-06-17.

References

Affected products (2)

More vulnerabilities in Foxitsoftware Phantompdf

All CVEs affecting Foxitsoftware Phantompdf →

Other CWE-125 (Out-of-bounds Read) vulnerabilities

Browse all CWE-125 (Out-of-bounds Read) vulnerabilities →