CVE-2020-35655 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2020-35655, a vulnerability in Pillow before 8.1.0 that allows a buffer over-read when processing SGI RLE image files. Find out the impact, affected systems, exploitation details, and mitigation steps.
In Pillow before 8.1.0, SGIRleDecode has a 4-byte buffer over-read when decoding crafted SGI RLE image files because offsets and length tables are mishandled.
Understanding CVE-2020-35655
This CVE involves a vulnerability in Pillow software that can lead to a buffer over-read when processing specific image files.
What is CVE-2020-35655?
The vulnerability in Pillow before version 8.1.0, known as CVE-2020-35655, arises from mishandling offsets and length tables during the decoding of SGI RLE image files.
The Impact of CVE-2020-35655
The vulnerability could potentially be exploited by an attacker to read sensitive information from the memory of the affected system, leading to a breach of confidentiality and potentially other security risks.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-35655
This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in SGIRleDecode in Pillow before 8.1.0 results in a 4-byte buffer over-read due to incorrect handling of offsets and length tables during the decoding process of crafted SGI RLE image files.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Versions affected: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by processing specially crafted SGI RLE image files, triggering the mishandling of offsets and length tables, leading to the buffer over-read.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2020-35655 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Pillow to version 8.1.0 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Avoid opening untrusted or unknown image files to reduce the risk of exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and libraries to the latest versions to address known vulnerabilities.
- Implement proper input validation and error handling mechanisms in image processing routines to prevent buffer over-read vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely patching of software and libraries, especially security-critical components like Pillow, to stay protected against potential exploits.