CVE-2019-9631 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Poppler version 0.74.0 is affected by a heap-based buffer over-read issue in the downsample_row_box_filter function within the CairoRescaleBox.cc file.

Understanding CVE-2019-9631

This CVE entry highlights a specific vulnerability in Poppler version 0.74.0.

What is CVE-2019-9631?

The vulnerability in Poppler version 0.74.0 allows for a heap-based buffer over-read in the downsample_row_box_filter function of the CairoRescaleBox.cc file.

The Impact of CVE-2019-9631

This vulnerability could potentially be exploited by an attacker to read sensitive information from the affected system's memory, leading to a compromise of data integrity and confidentiality.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-9631

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The heap-based buffer over-read occurs in the downsample_row_box_filter function of the CairoRescaleBox.cc file in Poppler version 0.74.0.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Version: Poppler version 0.74.0

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker to trigger the heap-based buffer over-read, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-9631 is crucial to maintaining security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Poppler to a non-vulnerable version.
Monitor vendor advisories for patches and updates.
Implement network security measures to prevent unauthorized access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to patch known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address weaknesses.
Educate users on safe computing practices to prevent exploitation of vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates provided by Poppler and relevant vendors to mitigate the risk of exploitation.