CVE-2026-25799 in ImageMagick
Summary
by MITRE • 02/24/2026
ImageMagick is free and open-source software used for editing and manipulating digital images. Prior to versions 7.1.2-15 and 6.9.13-40, a logic error in YUV sampling factor validation allows an invalid sampling factor to bypass checks and trigger a division-by-zero during image loading, resulting in a reliable denial-of-service. Versions 7.1.2-15 and 6.9.13-40 contain a patch.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/21/2026
ImageMagick represents a widely deployed image processing library that handles numerous graphic formats including jpeg png and gif. The vulnerability CVE-2026-25799 specifically targets the YUV sampling factor validation mechanism within the software's image loading process. This logic error creates a critical flaw in the input validation system where malformed sampling factors can bypass security checks and proceed to execution phases. The vulnerability exists in versions prior to 7.1.2-15 and 6.9.13-40, indicating this was a persistent issue across multiple release branches of the software. The flaw manifests during the image loading phase when the software processes YUV color space data, which is commonly used in video and photographic applications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a division-by-zero error that occurs when invalid sampling factors are processed. This type of error represents a classic denial-of-service condition where the application crashes or becomes unresponsive due to improper error handling. The validation logic fails to properly check sampling factor values, allowing malicious inputs to pass through validation mechanisms. When the software attempts to perform mathematical operations with these invalid factors, the division-by-zero condition triggers a system crash. This vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be exploited through simple image file manipulation without requiring any special privileges or complex attack vectors.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption to potentially affect systems that rely heavily on ImageMagick for image processing workflows. Organizations using vulnerable versions of ImageMagick may experience unexpected service outages when processing user-uploaded images or automated image processing tasks. The reliability of image processing applications becomes compromised, potentially leading to cascading failures in systems where image manipulation is a core function. This vulnerability particularly affects web applications, content management systems, and any platform that accepts image uploads from untrusted sources. The attack surface is broad since ImageMagick is integrated into numerous applications across different platforms and operating systems.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patch deployment to versions 7.1.2-15 or 6.9.13-40 where the validation logic has been corrected. System administrators should prioritize updating all instances of ImageMagick across their infrastructure to prevent exploitation. Additional protective measures include implementing strict image file validation at the application level, sanitizing image uploads before processing, and monitoring for unusual processing patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. The fix addresses the underlying CWE-369 vulnerability category which encompasses division by zero errors in input validation systems. This remediation aligns with established security practices outlined in the ATT&CK framework under the defense evasion and execution tactics, where proper input validation prevents such exploitations. The patch ensures that sampling factors are properly validated before any mathematical operations are performed, eliminating the possibility of division-by-zero conditions during image loading operations.