CVE-2017-5951 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-5951, a vulnerability in Artifex Software, Inc. Ghostscript 9.20 that allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service through a specially crafted file. Find mitigation steps and prevention measures.
Artifex Software, Inc. Ghostscript 9.20 is vulnerable to a denial of service attack due to a flaw in the mem_get_bits_rectangle function. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability through a specially crafted file, leading to a NULL pointer dereference and application crash.
Understanding CVE-2017-5951
This CVE entry describes a vulnerability in Ghostscript 9.20 that allows remote attackers to trigger a denial of service attack.
What is CVE-2017-5951?
The vulnerability in Artifex Software, Inc. Ghostscript 9.20 enables remote attackers to cause a denial of service by exploiting the mem_get_bits_rectangle function in base/gdevmem.c. This results in a NULL pointer dereference and subsequent application crash when a specially crafted file is used.
The Impact of CVE-2017-5951
The exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to a complete denial of service, causing the affected application to crash.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-5951
Artifex Software, Inc. Ghostscript 9.20 vulnerability details.
Vulnerability Description
The mem_get_bits_rectangle function in base/gdevmem.c in Ghostscript 9.20 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service through a NULL pointer dereference and application crash triggered by a specially crafted file.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Version: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attackers exploit the mem_get_bits_rectangle function in base/gdevmem.c
- Utilize a specially crafted file to trigger a NULL pointer dereference and application crash
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-5951.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor patches or updates promptly
- Implement network security measures to prevent unauthorized access
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and firmware to the latest versions
- Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities
Patching and Updates
- Check for security advisories from the vendor
- Apply patches or updates provided by Artifex Software, Inc.