CVE-2020-16299 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A Division by Zero vulnerability in bj10v_print_page() in contrib/japanese/gdev10v.c of Artifex Software GhostScript v9.50 allows a remote attacker to cause a denial of service via a crafted PDF file. This is fixed in v9.51.

Understanding CVE-2020-16299

This CVE involves a vulnerability in GhostScript that could be exploited by a remote attacker to trigger a denial of service attack.

What is CVE-2020-16299?

The CVE-2020-16299 is a Division by Zero vulnerability in the bj10v_print_page() function within the GhostScript software. By exploiting this vulnerability, an attacker can disrupt the service by using a specially crafted PDF file.

The Impact of CVE-2020-16299

The vulnerability allows a remote attacker to exploit the bj10v_print_page() function in GhostScript, potentially leading to a denial of service attack.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-16299

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability exists in the bj10v_print_page() function in GhostScript v9.50, enabling the attacker to trigger a denial of service through a malicious PDF file.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Software: GhostScript v9.50
Unaffected Software: GhostScript v9.51

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited remotely by sending a specially crafted PDF file to the target system, causing the bj10v_print_page() function to divide by zero and leading to a denial of service.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-16299 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update GhostScript to version 9.51 to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid opening PDF files from untrusted or unknown sources.
Monitor security advisories for any further updates or patches.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches promptly.
Implement network security measures to detect and block malicious PDF files.
Conduct security training for users to recognize and report suspicious activities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all systems running GhostScript are updated to version 9.51 or later to address the vulnerability.