Ghostscript - Arbitrary Code Execution

ghostscript Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

28/10/2016
N/A
Yes i
Unrated
Not published

DLA-674-2: ghostscript - regression update. Affects ghostscript versions < 9.05~dfsg-6.3+deb7u4. Fixed in 9.05~dfsg-6.3+deb7u4. How to fix ↓

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Background

Ghostscript is a GPL PostScript/PDF interpreter used for rendering and processing PostScript and PDF files. It provides a wide range of functionality for handling these file formats, including rendering, conversion, and manipulation. However, several vulnerabilities have been discovered in Ghostscript that could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or disclose sensitive information by exploiting specially crafted PostScript files.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerabilities in Ghostscript stem from flaws in its handling of PostScript files. If a maliciously crafted PostScript file is processed by Ghostscript, it may trigger these vulnerabilities and allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or disclose sensitive information. The impact of these vulnerabilities can be severe, as an attacker could potentially gain full control over the affected system or extract confidential data.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

9.05~dfsg-6.3+deb7u4

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade ghostscript

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Workaround

There is no known workaround for these vulnerabilities. It is essential to apply the provided fix by upgrading Ghostscript to the recommended version.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ghostscript is vulnerable to multiple flaws that could lead to arbitrary code execution or information disclosure. To mitigate these risks, it is crucial to upgrade your Ghostscript packages to version 9.05~dfsg-6.3+deb7u3 or later. For further support and assistance with vulnerability remediation, you can reach out to DevNack.com.

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FAQ

Ghostscript is a GPL PostScript/PDF interpreter used for rendering and processing PostScript and PDF files. It provides various functionalities for handling these file formats, including rendering, conversion, and manipulation.

These vulnerabilities could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or disclose sensitive information. This could result in the attacker gaining full control over the affected system or extracting confidential data.

To protect your system, it is recommended to upgrade your Ghostscript packages to version 9.05~dfsg-6.3+deb7u3 or later. This update includes patches and fixes for the identified vulnerabilities.

No, there is no known workaround for these vulnerabilities. It is crucial to apply the provided fix by upgrading Ghostscript to the recommended version.

You can find more information about Debian LTS security advisories, including how to apply updates and frequently asked questions, at the following link: https://wiki.debian.org/LTS

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for ghostscript.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

9.05~dfsg-6.3+deb7u4

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade ghostscript

Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →

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