CVE-2020-16298 : Security Advisory and Response

A buffer overflow vulnerability in mj_color_correct() in contrib/japanese/gdevmjc.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-2020-16298

This CVE involves a buffer overflow vulnerability in GhostScript v9.50 that could be exploited by a remote attacker to trigger a denial of service attack.

What is CVE-2020-16298?

The vulnerability in mj_color_correct() in GhostScript v9.50 enables an attacker to disrupt services by utilizing a specially crafted PDF file.

The Impact of CVE-2020-16298

The exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to a denial of service attack, potentially disrupting the availability of services relying on the affected GhostScript version.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-16298

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The buffer overflow vulnerability in mj_color_correct() in GhostScript v9.50 allows attackers to exploit the software using a malicious PDF file.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Systems: GhostScript v9.50
Affected Versions: All versions up to v9.50

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a PDF file to trigger the buffer overflow in mj_color_correct() function.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-16298 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update GhostScript to version 9.51 or the latest available release to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid opening PDF files from untrusted or unknown sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

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

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security updates and patches provided by Artifex Software to address the buffer overflow vulnerability in GhostScript v9.50.