CVE-2019-13281 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A potential vulnerability has been identified in Xpdf 4.01.01, specifically in the DCTStream::decodeImage() function located in Stream.cc. This vulnerability involves a heap-based buffer overflow that occurs while writing to the frameBuf memory. An exploitation scenario could involve using a maliciously crafted PDF document to target the pdftotext tool, potentially leading to a Denial of Service attack, information leak, or other consequences.

Understanding CVE-2019-13281

In Xpdf 4.01.01, a heap-based buffer overflow could be triggered in DCTStream::decodeImage() in Stream.cc when writing to frameBuf memory. An attacker could exploit this by sending a crafted PDF document to the pdftotext tool, causing Denial of Service, information leakage, or other impacts.

What is CVE-2019-13281?

Vulnerability in Xpdf 4.01.01
Heap-based buffer overflow in DCTStream::decodeImage()
Triggered by writing to frameBuf memory
Exploitation via a crafted PDF document targeting pdftotext
Potential for Denial of Service, information leak, or other impacts

The Impact of CVE-2019-13281

Possibility of Denial of Service attacks
Potential for information leakage
Other unspecified consequences

Technical Details of CVE-2019-13281

Xpdf 4.01.01 vulnerability details:

Vulnerability Description

Heap-based buffer overflow in DCTStream::decodeImage()
Occurs when writing to frameBuf memory

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Xpdf 4.01.01
Vendor: N/A
Version: N/A

Exploitation Mechanism

Crafted PDF document targeting pdftotext tool
Triggers the buffer overflow

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address CVE-2019-13281:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor patches or updates
Avoid opening untrusted PDF files
Monitor for any unusual system behavior

Long-Term Security Practices

Keep software and systems updated
Implement network segmentation
Conduct regular security assessments

Patching and Updates

Check for patches from Xpdf or system vendor
Apply security updates promptly