CVE-2019-20200 : What You Need to Know

A vulnerability has been found in versions 0.8.3 through 0.8.6 of ezXML, leading to a heap-based buffer over-read due to mishandling memory in the ezxml_decode function.

Understanding CVE-2019-20200

This CVE identifies a security issue in ezXML versions 0.8.3 through 0.8.6.

What is CVE-2019-20200?

This vulnerability arises from incorrect memory handling in the ezxml_decode function when processing a specially crafted XML file, resulting in a heap-based buffer over-read in the line endings normalization feature.

The Impact of CVE-2019-20200

The vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service by crashing the application.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-20200

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The ezxml_decode function in ezXML versions 0.8.3 through 0.8.6 mishandles memory, leading to a heap-based buffer over-read during line endings normalization.

Affected Systems and Versions

Versions 0.8.3 through 0.8.6 of ezXML are affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious XML file to trigger the incorrect memory handling in the ezxml_decode function.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-20200 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update ezXML to a non-vulnerable version if available.
Implement input validation to prevent malicious XML files from being processed.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor for security updates and patches for ezXML.
Conduct security audits to identify and address vulnerabilities in the code.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by the ezXML project to fix the memory mishandling issue in the ezxml_decode function.