CVE-2019-17541 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2019-17541, a use-after-free vulnerability in ImageMagick versions before 7.0.8-55, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause denial of service.
ImageMagick before version 7.0.8-55 is vulnerable to a use-after-free flaw in the DestroyStringInfo function within the string.c file of MagickCore. This vulnerability is due to improper error manager handling in the coders/jpeg.c file.
Understanding CVE-2019-17541
Versions of ImageMagick prior to 7.0.8-55 exhibit a use-after-free vulnerability in the DestroyStringInfo function found in the string.c file of MagickCore. This vulnerability arises from improper handling of the error manager in the coders/jpeg.c file.
What is CVE-2019-17541?
CVE-2019-17541 is a use-after-free vulnerability in ImageMagick versions before 7.0.8-55, specifically in the DestroyStringInfo function within the string.c file of MagickCore. The issue stems from mishandling the error manager in the coders/jpeg.c file.
The Impact of CVE-2019-17541
This vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service by exploiting the use-after-free flaw in ImageMagick.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-17541
ImageMagick before version 7.0.8-55 is susceptible to a use-after-free vulnerability in the DestroyStringInfo function within the string.c file of MagickCore.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in CVE-2019-17541 is a use-after-free flaw in the DestroyStringInfo function due to mishandling of the error manager in the coders/jpeg.c file.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: ImageMagick
- Vendor: N/A
- Versions affected: All versions prior to 7.0.8-55
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary code or trigger a denial of service by leveraging the use-after-free issue in ImageMagick.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2019-17541, follow these mitigation steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update ImageMagick to version 7.0.8-55 or later.
- Monitor official ImageMagick channels for security advisories.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and libraries to the latest versions.
- Implement secure coding practices to prevent memory-related vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches provided by ImageMagick promptly to fix the use-after-free vulnerability.