CVE-2025-14423 in GIMP
Summary
by MITRE • 12/24/2025
GIMP LBM File Parsing Stack-based Buffer Overflow Remote Code Execution Vulnerability. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of GIMP. User interaction is required to exploit this vulnerability in that the target must visit a malicious page or open a malicious file.
The specific flaw exists within the parsing of LBM files. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of the length of user-supplied data prior to copying it to a stack-based buffer. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current process. Was ZDI-CAN-28311.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/29/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-14423 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow in the GIMP image editing software's handling of LBM (Lossless BitMap) files. This flaw exists within the file parsing mechanism that processes LBM format images, which are commonly used in various digital art and graphic design applications. The vulnerability has been classified as a remote code execution vulnerability, meaning that an attacker can potentially compromise systems without requiring local access. The issue stems from insufficient input validation during the parsing of user-supplied LBM file data, creating an exploitable condition where maliciously crafted file contents can overflow stack buffers and potentially overwrite critical program execution data.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which occurs when a program writes data beyond the boundaries of a fixed-length stack buffer. This particular flaw demonstrates how improper bounds checking in file format parsers can create dangerous conditions for remote code execution. When GIMP processes an LBM file, it reads header information and data structures that define the image content, but fails to validate the length of certain fields before copying them into stack-based buffers. The vulnerability requires user interaction to exploit, meaning that a target must either open a malicious LBM file or visit a web page containing such a file, typically through a browser plugin or embedded content. This interaction requirement slightly reduces the attack surface compared to fully autonomous exploits but still represents a significant threat vector given the widespread use of image editing software.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it allows attackers to operate within the security context of the currently running GIMP process. This means that successful exploitation could enable attackers to access system resources, read or modify files accessible to the GIMP user, and potentially escalate privileges depending on the system configuration. The vulnerability affects all versions of GIMP that properly implement LBM file parsing, making it particularly concerning for organizations that rely heavily on image editing workflows. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access, deploy malware, or conduct data exfiltration operations. The fact that this vulnerability was tracked as ZDI-CAN-28311 indicates it was recognized by security vendors and likely had a coordinated disclosure timeline, suggesting the vulnerability had been actively exploited in the wild.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-14423 should focus on immediate software updates and defensive measures. Organizations should prioritize patching their GIMP installations to the latest versions that contain fixes for the LBM parsing vulnerability. Security administrators should implement network-based protections such as file type filtering and content scanning to prevent malicious LBM files from reaching end users. The principle of least privilege should be enforced when running GIMP, limiting the potential damage from successful exploitation. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of opening untrusted image files and implementing sandboxing techniques for image processing applications can provide additional layers of protection. Organizations should also consider implementing network monitoring to detect unusual file transfer patterns that might indicate attempts to deliver malicious LBM files through web applications or file sharing systems. Given the ATT&CK framework classification for this vulnerability, it would likely map to techniques involving malicious file execution and privilege escalation, making comprehensive monitoring and response procedures essential for effective defense.