CVE-2020-11538: Pillow - Out-of-Bounds Read in SGI Image Parsing
Summary
CVE-2020-11538: In libImaging/SgiRleDecode.c in Pillow through 7.0.0, a number of out-of-bounds reads exist in the parsing of SGI image files, a different issue than CVE-2020-5311. Affects pillow versions < 7.1.0. Fixed in 7.1.0. How to fix ↓
Also tracked for
The same CVE-2020-11538 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
Pillow is a popular Python imaging library that provides support for opening, manipulating, and saving many different image file formats. It is widely used in various applications for image processing and manipulation. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in the SGI image file parsing functionality of Pillow.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2020-11538, exists in the libImaging/SgiRleDecode.c file of Pillow through version 7.0.0. It is distinct from CVE-2020-5311. The issue involves multiple out-of-bounds reads during the parsing of SGI image files. This vulnerability could potentially be exploited by an attacker to read sensitive information from the memory or cause a denial-of-service condition.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 13.0.0 as of 22 Oct 2026
pip install --upgrade "pillow==13.0.0"Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
7.1.0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
pip install --upgrade "pillow==7.1.0"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 strongly advised to update to the latest version of Pillow.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the vulnerability (CVE-2020-11538) in Pillow's SGI image file parsing functionality can lead to out-of-bounds reads, potentially resulting in information disclosure or denial-of-service. It is crucial to update to Pillow version 7.1.0 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
Pillow is a Python imaging library that provides support for opening, manipulating, and saving various image file formats.
This vulnerability could allow an attacker to read sensitive information from the memory or cause a denial-of-service condition.
Yes, upgrading to Pillow version 7.1.0 or later will fix this vulnerability.
No, there are no known workarounds. It is recommended to update to the latest version of Pillow.
You can find more information about this vulnerability in the official advisory database for Pillow: https://github.com/pypa/advisory-database/blob/main/vulns/pillow/PYSEC-2020-80.yaml
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