CVE-2019-6446 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability was found in NumPy versions 1.16.0 and earlier, where the pickle Python module is used in an unsafe manner, enabling remote attackers to execute arbitrary code.

Understanding CVE-2019-6446

This CVE involves a security issue in NumPy versions 1.16.0 and earlier related to the unsafe usage of the pickle Python module.

What is CVE-2019-6446?

NumPy versions 1.16.0 and earlier are vulnerable due to unsafe handling of the pickle Python module, allowing remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by providing a manipulated serialized object.

The Impact of CVE-2019-6446

This vulnerability can be exploited by attackers to execute arbitrary code, posing a significant risk to systems using affected NumPy versions.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-6446

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in NumPy versions 1.16.0 and earlier arises from the unsafe usage of the pickle Python module, which can be exploited by attackers to execute arbitrary code.

Affected Systems and Versions

NumPy versions 1.16.0 and earlier are impacted by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by providing a manipulated serialized object, typically through a numpy.load call, to execute arbitrary code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-6446 involves taking immediate steps and implementing long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update NumPy to a non-vulnerable version if available.
Avoid loading serialized objects from untrusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to patched versions.
Implement input validation and sanitization to prevent malicious input.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by NumPy to address the vulnerability.