CVE-2007-0010 in GTK+
Summary
by MITRE
The GdkPixbufLoader function in GIMP ToolKit (GTK+) in GTK 2 (gtk2) before 2.4.13 allows context-dependent attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) via a malformed image file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/14/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0010 represents a critical denial of service flaw within the GdkPixbufLoader component of the GTK+ toolkit version 2.4.12 and earlier. This issue affects the fundamental image processing capabilities of applications built on GTK+ framework, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted image files can trigger application crashes. The vulnerability exists in the way the GdkPixbufLoader function handles malformed image data, specifically when processing image files that contain irregular or corrupted data structures that fall outside the expected parameter ranges for valid image formats. The flaw demonstrates a classic buffer overflow condition in the image parsing logic, where insufficient input validation leads to improper memory handling during image decoding operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an application utilizing GTK+ 2.4.12 or earlier attempts to load an image file through the GdkPixbufLoader function. When the loader encounters malformed data within the image file, it fails to properly validate the input parameters before proceeding with memory allocation and data processing. This results in memory corruption that ultimately leads to application termination through segmentation fault or access violation errors. The context-dependent nature of this vulnerability means that the attack vector requires a specific interaction pattern where a user or application explicitly attempts to load the malicious image file, making it a targeted rather than a passive threat. According to CWE classification, this vulnerability maps to CWE-125: Out-of-bounds Read, as the application attempts to read memory locations beyond the allocated buffer boundaries during image parsing operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-0010 extends beyond simple application crashes to potentially compromise system stability in environments where multiple GTK+ applications are running simultaneously. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to perform service disruption attacks against systems running vulnerable applications, particularly in web environments where image uploads are permitted. The vulnerability affects a broad range of applications including web browsers, image viewers, and desktop applications that rely on GTK+ for their graphical user interface components. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with T1499.004: Endpoint Denial of Service, as it enables adversaries to cause system or application unavailability through controlled input manipulation. The attack requires minimal sophistication but can be effectively deployed in automated systems to target multiple vulnerable applications simultaneously.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-0010 primarily focus on immediate software updates to GTK+ 2.4.13 or later versions where the vulnerability has been addressed through improved input validation and memory handling routines. System administrators should prioritize patching all affected applications that depend on GTK+ 2.4.12 or earlier, particularly those handling user-provided image files. Additionally, implementing input validation measures at application level can provide defense-in-depth protection by sanitizing image file inputs before passing them to the GdkPixbufLoader function. Network-level protections such as content filtering and image scanning systems can help prevent malicious image files from reaching vulnerable applications. Organizations should also consider implementing application sandboxing techniques to limit the impact of potential exploitation, ensuring that even if a vulnerability is successfully exploited, the damage remains contained within isolated execution environments. The remediation process should include thorough testing of patched applications to ensure that the vulnerability fix does not introduce compatibility issues with legitimate image file formats.