CVE-2018-16802 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A vulnerability was found in Artifex Ghostscript versions prior to 9.25. Attackers could exploit an incorrect "restoration of privilege" check during exception handling, allowing them to execute code using the "pipe" instruction.

Understanding CVE-2018-16802

What is CVE-2018-16802?

This CVE refers to a security flaw in Artifex Ghostscript versions before 9.25, enabling attackers to execute code through manipulated PostScript files.

The Impact of CVE-2018-16802

The vulnerability allows attackers to run code using the "pipe" instruction due to incomplete resolution of a previous CVE (CVE-2018-16509).

Technical Details of CVE-2018-16802

Vulnerability Description

Incorrect "restoration of privilege" check during exception handling
Exploitable by attackers providing manipulated PostScript files

Affected Systems and Versions

Artifex Ghostscript versions prior to 9.25

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the incorrect privilege check when running out of stack during exception handling

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Artifex Ghostscript to version 9.25 or later
Avoid opening untrusted PostScript files

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches
Implement proper input validation to prevent code execution through manipulated files

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by Artifex Ghostscript to address the vulnerability