CVE-2019-3835 : What You Need to Know

Ghostscript before version 9.27 contains a vulnerability that allows a specially crafted PostScript file to bypass security restrictions and gain unauthorized access to the file system.

Understanding CVE-2019-3835

This CVE involves a security flaw in Ghostscript that could be exploited by malicious actors to access the file system.

What is CVE-2019-3835?

Prior to version 9.27, Ghostscript's internal dictionary contained the superexec operator, enabling a crafted PostScript file to evade security measures and access files.

The Impact of CVE-2019-3835

The vulnerability poses a high severity risk with a CVSS base score of 7.3, allowing unauthorized access to the file system.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-3835

Ghostscript's vulnerability and its implications are detailed below.

Vulnerability Description

A flaw in Ghostscript's internal dictionary pre-9.27 allows a carefully crafted PostScript file to bypass -dSAFER restrictions and gain unauthorized file system access.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Ghostscript
Vendor: The Ghostscript Project
Affected Version: 9.27

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: None
Scope: Unchanged
Confidentiality Impact: Low
Integrity Impact: Low
Availability Impact: Low

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-3835 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Ghostscript to version 9.27 or later.
Avoid opening untrusted PostScript files.
Monitor vendor advisories for patches.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement file system access controls.
Regularly update and patch software.
Conduct security audits and assessments.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches promptly.
Stay informed about security updates from vendors.