CVE-2019-14934 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

PDFResurrect prior to version 0.18 is affected by a vulnerability in the pdf_load_pages_kids function in pdf.c, leading to a potential out-of-bounds write due to improper size value validation.

Understanding CVE-2019-14934

PDFResurrect version 0.18 and earlier are susceptible to a specific issue that can result in a malloc failure and potential out-of-bounds write.

What is CVE-2019-14934?

This CVE identifies a vulnerability in PDFResurrect versions before 0.18, where inadequate validation of a size value in the pdf_load_pages_kids function can trigger a malloc failure and allow an out-of-bounds write.

The Impact of CVE-2019-14934

The vulnerability in PDFResurrect could be exploited to cause a failure in malloc and potentially lead to an out-of-bounds write, posing a risk of unauthorized access or denial of service.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-14934

PDFResurrect's vulnerability in version 0.18 and earlier can be further understood through the following technical details:

Vulnerability Description

The issue lies in the pdf_load_pages_kids function in pdf.c, where a specific size value is not adequately validated, resulting in a malloc failure and potential out-of-bounds write.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: PDFResurrect
Vendor: N/A
Versions affected: All versions prior to 0.18

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by manipulating the size value in the pdf_load_pages_kids function, triggering a malloc failure and enabling an out-of-bounds write.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2019-14934 and enhance system security, consider the following mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update PDFResurrect to version 0.18 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor for any unusual activities that could indicate exploitation of the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to the latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement secure coding practices to validate inputs and prevent memory-related vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and promptly apply patches released by the software vendor to address vulnerabilities.