CVE-2026-25898 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, the UIL and XPM image encoder do not validate the pixel index value returned by `GetPixelIndex()` before using it as an array subscript. In HDRI builds, `Quantum` is a floating-point type, so pixel index values can be negative. An attacker can craft an image with negative pixel index values to trigger a global buffer overflow read during conversion, leading to information disclosure or a process crash. 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 formats including those that utilize UI and XPM encoders. The vulnerability CVE-2026-25898 specifically targets the improper validation of pixel index values within these encoders, creating a scenario where attackers can manipulate image data to exploit memory access violations. This flaw exists in versions prior to 7.1.2-15 and 6.9.13-40, indicating a long-standing issue that affected multiple release branches of the software. The root cause lies in the failure to validate the return value of GetPixelIndex() function before using it as an array subscript, a classic example of improper input validation that can lead to memory corruption vulnerabilities.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability becomes apparent when examining how HDRI (High Dynamic Range Image) builds handle pixel data. In these configurations, Quantum data type becomes a floating-point representation which allows for negative values that would be impossible in integer-based systems. When an attacker crafts an image file containing negative pixel index values, the software processes these values without proper bounds checking. This leads to a global buffer overflow read condition where memory locations outside the intended array bounds are accessed, potentially exposing sensitive information from adjacent memory regions or causing application crashes. The vulnerability demonstrates a clear path from malformed input to memory corruption through the lack of proper validation mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to include potential information disclosure risks that could compromise system security. When a process crashes due to buffer overflow conditions, it may leave behind memory segments that contain sensitive data such as cryptographic keys, user credentials, or system information. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where ImageMagick processes untrusted image files from external sources. The flaw affects systems where ImageMagick is used for image conversion operations, particularly in web applications, content management systems, or any platform that accepts user-uploaded images for processing. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including file upload mechanisms, image processing pipelines, and automated image conversion services.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve immediate patching of affected systems to versions 7.1.2-15 or 6.9.13-40 where the fix has been implemented. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all systems running affected versions of ImageMagick and prioritize patch deployment. Additionally, implementing input validation controls at multiple layers including file format validation, size restrictions, and sandboxed processing environments can provide defense-in-depth measures. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-129, which addresses improper validation of array indices, and represents a clear example of how floating-point arithmetic in image processing can create unexpected security implications. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability could be leveraged as part of initial access or privilege escalation techniques, particularly in environments where image processing is a common attack surface. System administrators should also consider implementing network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious image processing activities and establish robust patch management procedures to prevent similar issues in the future.