Description Preview
A buffer overflow vulnerability has been identified in xpdfreader version 4.03. This vulnerability is classified as CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write) which could potentially allow attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause denial of service by manipulating specially crafted PDF files.
Overview
The vulnerability affects xpdfreader version 4.03, a popular open-source PDF viewer and toolkit. The buffer overflow occurs when the application processes malformed PDF files, allowing writing past the end of an allocated buffer. This can lead to memory corruption, application crashes, or potentially remote code execution. The vulnerability could be exploited by convincing users to open specially crafted malicious PDF documents with the affected version of the software.
Remediation
Users are advised to take the following steps to mitigate this vulnerability:
- Update to the latest version of xpdfreader that contains patches for this vulnerability
- If updating is not immediately possible, avoid opening PDF files from untrusted sources
- Consider using alternative PDF readers until the system can be patched
- System administrators should prioritize patching systems with xpdfreader installed, especially those used by users who frequently open PDF files from external sources
References
- Vendor Advisory: https://forum.xpdfreader.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=42185
- CWE-787: Out-of-bounds Write: https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/787.html
- MITRE CVE Entry: CVE-2021-40226
Industry ExposureMost to leastThis section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.
- Accommodation & Food ServicesAccommodation & Food Services
- Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation ServicesAdministrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
- Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & HuntingAgriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
- Arts, Entertainment & RecreationArts, Entertainment & Recreation
- ConstructionConstruction
- Educational ServicesEducational Services
- Finance and InsuranceFinance and Insurance
- Health Care & Social AssistanceHealth Care & Social Assistance
- InformationInformation
- Management of Companies & EnterprisesManagement of Companies & Enterprises
- ManufacturingManufacturing
- MiningMining
- Other Services (except Public Administration)Other Services (except Public Administration)
- Professional, Scientific, & Technical ServicesProfessional, Scientific, & Technical Services
- Public AdministrationPublic Administration
- Real Estate Rental & LeasingReal Estate Rental & Leasing
- Retail TradeRetail Trade
- Transportation & WarehousingTransportation & Warehousing
- UtilitiesUtilities
- Wholesale TradeWholesale Trade
