CVE-2020-16296 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A buffer overflow vulnerability in GetNumWrongData() in contrib/lips4/gdevlips.c of Artifex Software GhostScript v9.50 allows a remote attacker to cause a denial of service via a crafted PDF file. This is fixed in v9.51.

Understanding CVE-2020-16296

This CVE involves a buffer overflow vulnerability in GhostScript version 9.50, potentially leading to a denial of service attack.

What is CVE-2020-16296?

The vulnerability in GetNumWrongData() in GhostScript v9.50 allows attackers to exploit a buffer overflow issue by using a specially crafted PDF file, resulting in a denial of service.

The Impact of CVE-2020-16296

The exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to a denial of service condition on systems running the affected version of GhostScript, potentially disrupting services and operations.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-16296

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability lies in the GetNumWrongData() function in the gdevlips.c file of GhostScript v9.50, enabling attackers to trigger a buffer overflow.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Artifex Software GhostScript
Version: 9.50
Status: Affected

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious PDF file that triggers the buffer overflow in the GetNumWrongData() function.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-16296 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update GhostScript to version 9.51 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid opening PDF files from untrusted or unknown sources.
Monitor for any unusual system behavior that could indicate an attack.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches promptly.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all systems running GhostScript are updated to version 9.51 or the latest available release to patch the vulnerability.