CVE-2019-12216 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability was found in the library libSDL2.a, which is a part of Simple DirectMedia Layer (SDL) version 2.0.9, when utilized alongside libSDL2_image.a in SDL2_image version 2.0.4. Specifically, there exists an overrun of a heap-based buffer in the function IMG_LoadPCX_RW located at IMG_pcx.c, within SDL2_image.

Understanding CVE-2019-12216

This CVE-2019-12216 article provides insights into a vulnerability affecting libSDL2.a in SDL version 2.0.9 when used with libSDL2_image.a in SDL2_image version 2.0.4.

What is CVE-2019-12216?

CVE-2019-12216 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in the function IMG_LoadPCX_RW within the SDL2_image component of Simple DirectMedia Layer (SDL).

The Impact of CVE-2019-12216

The vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service by exploiting the heap-based buffer overflow in SDL2_image.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-12216

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE-2019-12216 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue involves a heap-based buffer overflow in the function IMG_LoadPCX_RW within the SDL2_image component of SDL.

Affected Systems and Versions

Simple DirectMedia Layer (SDL) version 2.0.9
SDL2_image version 2.0.4

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious PCX file to trigger the buffer overflow in the IMG_LoadPCX_RW function.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2019-12216, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches provided by the vendor promptly.
Disable the processing of untrusted PCX files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update SDL and associated libraries to the latest versions.
Implement secure coding practices to prevent buffer overflows.

Patching and Updates

Check for security advisories from SDL and related distributions for patch availability and apply them as soon as possible.