CVE-2019-9956 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

ImageMagick version 7.0.8-35 Q16 contains a vulnerability in the function PopHexPixel in the coders/ps.c file, leading to a stack-based buffer overflow. This flaw can be exploited by an attacker through a manipulated image file, potentially resulting in a denial of service or arbitrary code execution.

Understanding CVE-2019-9956

ImageMagick 7.0.8-35 Q16 vulnerability

What is CVE-2019-9956?

ImageMagick version 7.0.8-35 Q16 has a stack-based buffer overflow in the PopHexPixel function of coders/ps.c.
Attackers can exploit this flaw by using a crafted image file to trigger denial of service or execute arbitrary code.

The Impact of CVE-2019-9956

Successful exploitation can lead to denial of service or arbitrary code execution on the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-9956

Details of the vulnerability

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability exists in the PopHexPixel function in the coders/ps.c file of ImageMagick version 7.0.8-35 Q16.
It is a stack-based buffer overflow that can be abused by attackers through a manipulated image file.

Affected Systems and Versions

ImageMagick version 7.0.8-35 Q16 is affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by using a specially crafted image file to trigger the buffer overflow.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting against CVE-2019-9956

Immediate Steps to Take

Update ImageMagick to a non-vulnerable version.
Avoid opening image files from untrusted or unknown sources.
Implement proper input validation mechanisms.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches.
Conduct security training for users on identifying and handling suspicious files.

Patching and Updates

Apply the latest security updates provided by ImageMagick to address this vulnerability.