Integer Overflow Vulnerability in Ghostscript Leading to Path Traversal and Code Execution
Summary
ALPINE-CVE-2024-46953: An issue was discovered in base/gsdevice.c in Artifex Ghostscript before 10.04.0. Affects ghostscript versions < 10.04.0-r0. Fixed in 10.04.0-r0. How to fix ↓
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Background
Ghostscript is an interpreter for the PostScript language and for PDF. It is widely used for processing and rendering documents in various formats. The package is known for its versatility in handling graphics and text, making it a crucial tool in many applications. However, it has been identified to have a vulnerability that could allow attackers to exploit the system through improper handling of filename format strings.
Vulnerability Detail
An integer overflow was discovered in the base/gsdevice.c file of Artifex Ghostscript prior to version 10.04.0. This vulnerability occurs when parsing the filename format string for the output filename, leading to path truncation. This can result in path traversal attacks, allowing unauthorized access to files and potential code execution on the affected system. The vulnerability is classified with a CVSS score of 7.8, indicating a high severity level.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
10.04.0-r0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apk add --upgrade ghostscriptTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If immediate updating is not feasible, consider restricting access to the Ghostscript application or running it in a controlled environment to mitigate potential risks until the update can be applied.
Conclusion
The integer overflow vulnerability in Ghostscript poses significant risks, including path traversal and code execution. It is crucial for users to update to the latest version to mitigate these risks. Utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor and alert for such vulnerabilities in real-time.
See every vulnerability recorded for ghostscript →
FAQ
The vulnerability is an integer overflow that can lead to path truncation, allowing for path traversal and potential code execution.
Ghostscript versions prior to 10.04.0 are affected by this vulnerability.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 7.8, indicating a high severity level.
If you cannot update immediately, consider restricting access to the application or running it in a controlled environment until you can apply the update.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for ghostscript.
