CVE-2018-16648 : Security Advisory and Response

Artifex MuPDF 1.13.0 is vulnerable to a denial of service attack due to a flaw in the fz_append_byte function. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating a specially crafted PDF file.

Understanding CVE-2018-16648

This CVE entry highlights a vulnerability in Artifex MuPDF 1.13.0 that could lead to a denial of service attack.

What is CVE-2018-16648?

The vulnerability in Artifex MuPDF 1.13.0 allows remote attackers to trigger a segmentation fault, resulting in a denial of service. The flaw is located in the fz_append_byte function within fitz/buffer.c.

The Impact of CVE-2018-16648

Exploiting this vulnerability can cause a denial of service by crashing the application, potentially disrupting services or systems relying on MuPDF.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-16648

Artifex MuPDF 1.13.0 vulnerability details.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in the fz_append_byte function of Artifex MuPDF 1.13.0 allows attackers to exploit a segmentation fault via a crafted PDF file. The issue stems from an underflow in the pdf_dev_alpha array-index within pdf/pdf-device.c.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Version: 1.13.0
Product: Artifex MuPDF

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating a specially crafted PDF file to trigger a segmentation fault, leading to a denial of service.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-16648.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the latest security updates provided by the vendor.
Avoid opening PDF files from untrusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement network security measures to detect and prevent malicious PDF files.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that Artifex MuPDF is updated to the latest version to mitigate the vulnerability.