CVE-2019-14493: NULL Pointer Dereference in OpenCV
Summary
CVE-2019-14493: NULL Pointer Dereference in OpenCV. Affects opencv-python versions < 4.1.1.26. Fixed in 4.1.1.26. How to fix ↓
Also tracked for
- opencv-contrib-python · PyPI
- opencv-python-headless · PyPI
- opencv-contrib-python-headless · PyPI
- opencv · Debian:11
The same CVE-2019-14493 is tracked separately for each ecosystem and vendor. Its fix information is the same; the package and affected versions differ.
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Background
OpenCV is an open-source computer vision and machine learning software library. It provides a wide range of functions and algorithms for image and video processing, feature detection, object recognition, and more. OpenCV-Python is a Python wrapper for OpenCV, allowing developers to use OpenCV functionalities in Python applications. However, OpenCV-Python versions before 4.1.1.26 are vulnerable to a NULL pointer dereference in the cv::XMLParser::parse function, located in the persistence.cpp file of the core module. This vulnerability can be exploited to cause a crash or potentially execute arbitrary code.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises due to a NULL pointer dereference in the cv::XMLParser::parse function. When parsing XML data, the function fails to handle a NULL pointer, leading to a crash or potential code execution. An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by providing specially crafted XML data to an application that uses the affected OpenCV-Python version. The impact of this vulnerability can range from denial of service (application crash) to potential remote code execution, depending on how the application handles the XML data.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 5.0.0.93 as of 23 Oct 2026
pip install --upgrade "opencv-python==5.0.0.93"Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
4.1.1.26
This is the first release that contains the fix.
pip install --upgrade "opencv-python==4.1.1.26"Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is crucial to update to the fixed version of the OpenCV-Python package to mitigate the risk.
Conclusion
The NULL pointer dereference vulnerability in OpenCV-Python versions before 4.1.1.26 can lead to crashes or potential code execution. It is crucial to update to the fixed version (4.1.1.26 or later) to mitigate the risk. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
OpenCV is an open-source computer vision and machine learning software library. It provides various functions and algorithms for image and video processing, feature detection, object recognition, and more.
OpenCV-Python is a Python wrapper for OpenCV, allowing developers to use OpenCV functionalities in Python applications.
A NULL pointer dereference occurs when a program attempts to access or manipulate data using a pointer that points to NULL (a memory address with no assigned value). This can lead to crashes or potential code execution if not handled properly.
An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by providing specially crafted XML data to an application that uses the affected OpenCV-Python version. This can lead to a crash or potential remote code execution, depending on how the application handles the XML data.
To fix this vulnerability, update the OpenCV-Python package to version 4.1.1.26 or later by running the command 'pip install --upgrade opencv-python'.
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