CVE-2019-12978 : Security Advisory and Response

ImageMagick 7.0.8-34 has a vulnerability in the ReadPANGOImage function that involves the use of an uninitialized value.

Understanding CVE-2019-12978

This CVE involves a specific vulnerability in ImageMagick 7.0.8-34 related to uninitialized values.

What is CVE-2019-12978?

The vulnerability in the ReadPANGOImage function in coders/pango.c in ImageMagick 7.0.8-34 is due to the use of an uninitialized value.

The Impact of CVE-2019-12978

The vulnerability could potentially be exploited by attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (DoS) on systems running the affected version of ImageMagick.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-12978

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in ImageMagick 7.0.8-34 is specifically related to the ReadPANGOImage function in coders/pango.c and the use of uninitialized values.

Affected Systems and Versions

ImageMagick version 7.0.8-34

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers could exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious image file and tricking a user or system into processing it with the vulnerable ImageMagick version.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-12978 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update ImageMagick to a patched version that addresses the vulnerability.
Avoid processing image files from untrusted or unknown sources.
Monitor security advisories for any updates related to ImageMagick.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement regular security updates and patches for all software components.
Conduct security training for users to recognize and report suspicious activities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that ImageMagick is regularly updated with the latest security patches to mitigate the risk of exploitation.