CVE-2019-9635: NULL Pointer Dereference in TensorFlow
Summary
CVE-2019-9635: NULL pointer dereference in Google TensorFlow before 1.12.2 could cause a denial of service via an invalid GIF file. Affects tensorflow-cpu versions < 1.12.2. Fixed in 1.12.2. How to fix ↓
Also tracked for
- tensorflow · PyPI
- tensorflow · PyPI
- tensorflow-gpu · PyPI
The same CVE-2019-9635 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
TensorFlow is an open-source machine learning framework developed by Google. It provides a comprehensive ecosystem of tools, libraries, and resources for building and deploying machine learning models. TensorFlow is widely used in various domains, including research, industry, and academia. However, versions before 1.12.2 are vulnerable to a NULL pointer dereference issue.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability (CVE-2019-9635) in TensorFlow arises from a NULL pointer dereference when processing an invalid GIF file. An attacker can exploit this flaw to cause a denial of service (DoS) by providing a specially crafted GIF file that triggers the NULL pointer dereference. This can lead to the TensorFlow application crashing or becoming unresponsive. The impact of this vulnerability can disrupt the availability and functionality of systems relying on TensorFlow.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 2.21.0 as of 22 Oct 2026
pip install --upgrade "tensorflow-cpu==2.21.0"Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
1.12.2
This is the first release that contains the fix.
pip install --upgrade "tensorflow-cpu==1.12.2"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 essential to apply the recommended fix by updating to the patched version of TensorFlow.
Conclusion
The NULL pointer dereference vulnerability in TensorFlow (CVE-2019-9635) can be exploited by providing a malicious GIF file, leading to a denial of service condition. To mitigate this vulnerability, it is crucial to update to TensorFlow version 1.12.2 or later. There is no known workaround for this issue. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for tensorflow-cpu →
FAQ
The vulnerability can lead to a denial of service (DoS) condition in TensorFlow, causing the application to crash or become unresponsive.
An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by providing a specially crafted GIF file that triggers the NULL pointer dereference in TensorFlow.
No, there is no known workaround. It is crucial to update to the patched version of TensorFlow.
Versions before 1.12.2 of TensorFlow are affected by this vulnerability.
You can find more information about this vulnerability in the official TensorFlow security advisory: [link to the advisory]
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for tensorflow-cpu.
