Artifex Software Ghostscript pprintg1 Function Buffer Overflow Vulnerability [CVE-2018-10194]

CVE Number – CVE-2018-10194

A vulnerability in the pprintg1 function of Artifex Software Ghostscript could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (DoS) condition on a targeted system.

The vulnerability is due improper handling of postscript file data written to PDF. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by persuading a targeted user to open a PDF file that submits malicious input to the affected software. A successful exploit could trigger a buffer overflow condition in the pprintg1 function of the software, which the attacker could use to execute arbitrary code or cause the affected application to crash, resulting in a DoS condition.

Artifex Software has confirmed the vulnerability and released software updates.

• To exploit the vulnerability, the attacker must have local access to the targeted system or use misleading language or instructions to persuade a user to open or execute a PDF file that submits malicious input to the system.

• Administrators are advised to apply the appropriate updates.

  Administrators are advised to allow only trusted users to have network access.

  Users are advised not to open email messages from suspicious or unrecognized sources. If users cannot verify that links or attachments included in email messages are safe, they are advised not to open them.

  Users are advised not to visit websites or follow links that have suspicious characteristics or that cannot be verified as safe.

  Administrators are advised to use an unprivileged account when browsing the Internet.

  Administrators are advised to monitor critical systems.

• Artifex Software has released a changelog at the following link: 
  pdfwrite – Guard against trying to output an infinite number

• Artifex Software has released software updates at the following link: Ghostscript 9.23

Duncan

Duncan is a technology professional with over 20 years experience of working in various IT roles. He has a interest in cyber security, and has a wide range of other skills in radio, electronics and telecommunications.