CVE-2010-0619 in X94x
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the base, IPDS DLE, Forms DLE, Barcode DLE, Prescribe DLE, and Printcryption DLE components on certain Lexmark laser printers and multi-function printers allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (device hang) via a long argument to a PJL INQUIRE command.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/03/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-0619 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow affecting multiple components within Lexmark laser printers and multi-function devices. This flaw exists in the base firmware as well as several specialized DLE (Device Language Engine) modules including IPDS DLE, Forms DLE, Barcode DLE, Prescribe DLE, and Printcryption DLE. The vulnerability specifically targets the handling of PJL (Printer Job Language) commands, particularly the INQUIRE command which is used for querying printer status and configuration information. The flaw allows remote attackers to exploit the buffer overflow by sending a carefully crafted argument that exceeds the allocated stack buffer size, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or device hang conditions.
This vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a fundamental memory safety issue where data written to a stack buffer exceeds the buffer's allocated size. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it enables remote code execution without requiring physical access to the device, making it accessible to attackers who can send malicious PJL commands over network connections. The affected Lexmark devices typically operate on TCP port 9100 or other standard printer ports, allowing exploitation from external networks. The buffer overflow occurs during the processing of user-supplied input within the printer's firmware, specifically when parsing the argument field of the PJL INQUIRE command, which is commonly used by print servers and client applications to retrieve printer information.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to potentially enable complete system compromise. When exploited successfully, the buffer overflow can overwrite critical memory locations including return addresses, function pointers, or other control data, allowing attackers to inject and execute malicious code within the printer's execution environment. This could result in persistent backdoors, data exfiltration from the printer's memory, or even use of the compromised device as a pivot point for attacking internal network resources. The device hang condition represents a more limited impact but still poses significant operational risks including print job failures, service interruptions, and potential damage to print queue management systems. Organizations relying on Lexmark printers for document processing may face disruptions to their printing infrastructure and potential exposure to unauthorized access to sensitive documents.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-0619 should focus on immediate firmware updates from Lexmark, which would address the underlying buffer overflow conditions in the affected DLE components. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to restrict access to printer ports, particularly port 9100, limiting exposure to untrusted networks. Implementing network filtering rules to block incoming PJL commands or restricting the types of commands accepted by printers can provide additional protection layers. Regular security assessments of printer firmware versions and monitoring for unusual network traffic patterns on printer ports should be conducted. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.005 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation would likely involve injecting malicious code through the printer's command processing capabilities. Organizations should also consider implementing printer management solutions that can detect and prevent exploitation attempts, and establish incident response procedures for handling potential compromise of networked printing infrastructure.