CVE-2020-22336
CWE-787Published: July 6, 2023· Updated: Jun 17, 2026
Official Description
An issue was discovered in pdfcrack 0.17 thru 0.18, allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via a stack overflow in the MD5 function.
Risk Analysis
A stack overflow vulnerability exists in the MD5 function of pdfcrack, which could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code. The critical CVSS score reflects the potential for complete system compromise.
No public exploit is currently known, and it is not in the CISA KEV. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable with low attack complexity.
Users should ensure they are using a patched version of pdfcrack or apply vendor-provided security updates.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2020-22336 can be exploited remotely over the network without requiring physical or adjacent access, significantly expanding the attack surface for threat actors.
The vulnerability requires no privileges and no user interaction, making it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns and worm-like propagation.
A successful exploit results in complete confidentiality breach (data exposure), full integrity compromise (data manipulation), availability disruption (denial of service), with a CVSS base score of 9.8.
From a weakness classification perspective (CWE-787): Out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities can lead to data corruption, crashes, or arbitrary code execution.
CVSS v3.1 Vector Breakdown
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
All References (4)
Quick Facts
Related CVEs (CWE-787)
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2020-22336 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts