CVE-2012-2763 in GIMP
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the readstr_upto function in plug-ins/script-fu/tinyscheme/scheme.c in GIMP 2.6.12 and earlier, and possibly 2.6.13, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long string in a command to the script-fu server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/04/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-2763 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the GIMP image editing software ecosystem. This issue resides in the readstr_upto function located in the plug-ins/script-fu/tinyscheme/scheme.c file, affecting GIMP versions 2.6.12 and earlier, with potential impact extending to version 2.6.13. The buffer overflow vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and boundary checking within the scheme.c implementation, which processes command strings through the script-fu server interface. This flaw creates an exploitable condition where malicious input can overwrite adjacent memory regions, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient boundary checks allow attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The flaw operates through the script-fu server functionality that enables remote command execution capabilities within GIMP's plugin architecture. When a maliciously crafted long string is passed to the script-fu server through the readstr_upto function, the inadequate buffer size validation causes memory corruption that can be leveraged by remote attackers to inject and execute malicious code. This vulnerability specifically targets the tinyscheme interpreter implementation within GIMP's scripting framework, making it particularly dangerous as it operates within the trusted plugin execution environment.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-2763 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential system compromise and data integrity violations. Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability without requiring local access or authentication, making it particularly dangerous in environments where GIMP is deployed with network-accessible script-fu servers. The vulnerability affects not only individual user systems but also networked environments where GIMP might be exposed to untrusted input sources. Attackers could leverage this flaw to gain unauthorized access to systems running vulnerable GIMP versions, potentially leading to complete system compromise or data exfiltration. The impact is amplified by the fact that script-fu functionality is commonly enabled in GIMP installations, making the attack surface more widespread.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate version upgrades to patched GIMP releases, as this represents a known issue with available remediations. System administrators should implement network segmentation to limit access to GIMP instances with script-fu servers, particularly in environments where untrusted users might interact with the software. Input validation controls should be implemented at network boundaries to filter out potentially malicious command strings before they reach vulnerable GIMP installations. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 for scripting and T1203 for exploitation of remote services, highlighting the need for defensive measures that monitor and restrict script execution capabilities. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of untrusted GIMP plugins and ensure that script-fu functionality is disabled in environments where it is not required. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues within the broader software ecosystem.