New Version of Foxit PDF Reader Released
Foxit Software has recently launched the latest version, 2024.1, of the free Foxit PDF Reader for both Windows and macOS. Along with this update, there are corresponding enhancements to the premium Foxit PDF Editor, which is renowned as one of the top PDF editing tools available. The most notable aspect of these updates is the closure of 50 security vulnerabilities in both programs, with a majority of them being classified as high risk. It is important to note that, at present, there have been no reported instances of these vulnerabilities being exploited in any attacks.
Security Vulnerabilities
Based on the recent from March 5, all previous versions of Foxit Reader up to 2023.3, on both Windows and macOS platforms, were found to be vulnerable. Additionally, older versions of Foxit PDF Editor, including those from generations 13.x, 12.x, 11.x, and 10.x, were also impacted. The vulnerabilities identified could potentially be exploited using specially crafted PDF files to inject and execute arbitrary code. While Mac versions exhibited fewer vulnerabilities compared to Windows, the overall risk level remains high.
Comparison with Other PDF Readers
Foxit PDF Reader, previously known as Foxit Reader, has often been lauded as a lightweight alternative to Adobe Acrobat Reader. However, with the continuous expansion of features, including through supplied plug-ins, the program’s download size has now exceeded 140 MB. For basic PDF viewing tasks, modern web browsers such as Chrome, Edge, and Firefox offer built-in PDF viewers that are often sufficient. Alternatively, Sumatra PDF, an open-source software, remains a compact and portable option, with a download size of under 8 MB.
Upon completion of the installation process, users are presented with the option to install the Foxit PDF Editor alongside the Reader.
Foxit PDF Editor
Known previously as Foxit PhantomPDF, the Foxit PDF Editor is a commercial solution geared towards creating and editing PDF documents, competing directly with Adobe Acrobat. During the installation of Foxit PDF Reader, a 14-day trial version of Foxit PDF Editor is automatically included unless manually deselected.
This content has been adapted and originally appeared on pcwelt.de.
Author: Frank Ziemann
Frank Ziemann has been a freelance author for PC-WELT since 2005, contributing news and reviews with a focus on IT security (malware, antivirus, security vulnerabilities) and internet technology.