CVE-2020-16310 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2020-16310, a division by zero vulnerability in Artifex Software GhostScript v9.50 that allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service via a crafted PDF file. Find out how to mitigate and prevent this issue.
A division by zero vulnerability in dot24_print_page() in devices/gdevdm24.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-2020-16310
This CVE involves a vulnerability in GhostScript that could be exploited by a remote attacker to trigger a denial of service attack.
What is CVE-2020-16310?
The CVE-2020-16310 vulnerability is a division by zero issue in the dot24_print_page() function within Artifex Software GhostScript v9.50. By exploiting this vulnerability, a remote attacker can disrupt the service by using a specially crafted PDF file.
The Impact of CVE-2020-16310
The impact of this vulnerability is the potential for a remote attacker to exploit the division by zero issue, leading to a denial of service condition on the affected system.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-16310
This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability lies in the dot24_print_page() function in devices/gdevdm24.c of GhostScript v9.50, allowing an attacker to exploit a division by zero flaw.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Artifex Software GhostScript
- Version: 9.50
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by a remote attacker through a specially crafted PDF file, triggering the division by zero issue and causing a denial of service.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2020-16310 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update GhostScript to version 9.51 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Be cautious when handling PDF files from untrusted sources.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and apply security patches promptly.
- Implement network security measures to detect and prevent potential attacks.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that all systems running GhostScript are updated to version 9.51 or above to address the vulnerability.