CVE-2021-27548 : Security Advisory and Response

A Null Pointer Dereference vulnerability has been identified in the XFAScanner::scanNode() function within XFAScanner.cc in xpdf 4.03. This vulnerability is assigned CVE-2021-27548 and was first published on February 22, 2021.

Understanding CVE-2021-27548

This section will cover the basics of CVE-2021-27548, including its impact and technical details.

What is CVE-2021-27548?

CVE-2021-27548 is a Null Pointer Dereference vulnerability found in the XFAScanner::scanNode() function in xpdf 4.03. It poses a security risk due to improper handling of pointers, potentially leading to a denial of service or arbitrary code execution.

The Impact of CVE-2021-27548

The vulnerability allows attackers to exploit the Null Pointer Dereference issue, causing a crash or executing malicious code in the context of the affected application, leading to a possible security breach or system compromise.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-27548

In this section, we will delve into the technical aspects of the CVE, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the improper handling of pointers in the XFAScanner::scanNode() function of xpdf 4.03, leading to a Null Pointer Dereference.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects xpdf 4.03, with the XFAScanner::scanNode() function being specifically vulnerable to exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

By providing specially crafted input, an attacker can trigger the Null Pointer Dereference in XFAScanner::scanNode(), potentially leading to a crash or code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section covers the measures to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-27548 and prevent potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update xpdf to a patched version that addresses the Null Pointer Dereference vulnerability. Additionally, monitoring for any suspicious activities is recommended.

Long-Term Security Practices

To enhance security posture, organizations should implement secure coding practices, regular security assessments, and employee awareness programs.

Patching and Updates

Regularly updating software, including xpdf, to the latest secure versions is crucial to safeguard against known vulnerabilities and maintain a secure environment.