CVE-2018-16542 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

Artifex Ghostscript before version 9.24 is vulnerable to a crash caused by inadequate interpreter stack-size checking when handling errors in PostScript files.

Understanding CVE-2018-16542

In September 2018, CVE-2018-16542 was published, highlighting a vulnerability in Artifex Ghostscript versions prior to 9.24.

What is CVE-2018-16542?

In versions of Artifex Ghostscript earlier than 9.24, attackers could exploit insufficient interpreter stack-size checking during error handling to crash the interpreter using manipulated PostScript files.

The Impact of CVE-2018-16542

The vulnerability could allow attackers to cause a crash in the interpreter, potentially leading to denial of service or other malicious activities.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-16542

Artifex Ghostscript CVE-2018-16542 has the following technical details:

Vulnerability Description

Attackers could exploit inadequate interpreter stack-size checking during error handling in Artifex Ghostscript versions before 9.24, leading to interpreter crashes.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Artifex Ghostscript
Vendor: Artifex
Versions affected: All versions before 9.24

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers supply crafted PostScript files
Insufficient interpreter stack-size checking during error handling
Result: Interpreter crash

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2018-16542, consider the following mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Artifex Ghostscript to version 9.24 or later
Monitor vendor advisories for patches and updates

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches
Implement proper error handling mechanisms in applications

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by Artifex to fix the vulnerability
Keep software up to date to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities