CVE-2023-2662 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This article provides an in-depth analysis of CVE-2023-2662, detailing the vulnerability, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

Understanding CVE-2023-2662

CVE-2023-2662 refers to a vulnerability found in Xpdf version 4.04 and earlier versions. The vulnerability stems from a bad color space object in the input PDF file, leading to a divide-by-zero error.

What is CVE-2023-2662?

The CVE-2023-2662 vulnerability in Xpdf 4.04 and earlier versions occurs due to a bad color space object present in the input PDF file. This flaw can trigger a divide-by-zero error, potentially leading to a denial of service or system instability.

The Impact of CVE-2023-2662

The impact of CVE-2023-2662 is considered low, with a CVSS base score of 2.9. Although the availability impact is low, the attack complexity is high, making it easier for local attackers to exploit this vulnerability. It does not require any specific privileges.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-2662

This section delves deeper into the technical aspects of the CVE-2023-2662 vulnerability, including its description, affected systems and versions, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Xpdf 4.04 and earlier versions arises from a bad color space object in the input PDF file, triggering a divide-by-zero error. This flaw can be exploited by attackers to disrupt the normal operation of the application or system.

Affected Systems and Versions

Xpdf version 4.04 and earlier versions are impacted by CVE-2023-2662. Users utilizing these versions are at risk of encountering the divide-by-zero error due to the presence of a bad color space object in the input PDF file.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the CVE-2023-2662 vulnerability by crafting a malicious PDF file with a bad color space object, causing a divide-by-zero error when parsed by Xpdf. This exploitation can lead to a denial of service or system instability.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard systems and applications from the CVE-2023-2662 vulnerability, it is crucial to implement immediate steps, adopt long-term security practices, and apply necessary patches and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update Xpdf to a version beyond 4.04 to mitigate the risk of encountering the divide-by-zero error.
Caution should be exercised when opening PDF files from unknown or untrusted sources to prevent potential exploitation of the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to ensure the latest security patches are installed.
Employ network security measures to detect and prevent malicious PDF files from causing harm to the system.

Patching and Updates

Xpdf users are advised to apply the latest patches and updates released by the vendor to address the CVE-2023-2662 vulnerability. Staying up-to-date with software versions can help mitigate the risk of exploitation and enhance overall system security.