CVE-2026-42170: Gimp: gimp dds plug-in heap-based buffer overflow via bpp mismatch in load_layer() (ddsread.c)

Published Apr 24, 2026
·
Updated

A heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability exists in the GIMP DDS (DirectDraw Surface) file parser. When a crafted DDS file declares a D3D9 pixel format but sets a lower bits-per-pixel (bpp) value in the header, the loader allocates an undersized heap buffer. Subsequent pixel data consumption at the real format's stride causes a write past the heap buffer boundary, leading to heap metadata corruption and potential code execution.

Affected Software

5 affected components
GIMP DDS plugin
redhat Enterprise Linux=6.0
redhat Enterprise Linux=7.0
redhat Enterprise Linux=8.0
redhat Enterprise Linux=9.0

Event History

Apr 24, 2026
Data Sourced
via Red Hat·08:54 PM
DescriptionSeverityAffected Software
Aug 8, 2026
CVE Published
via MITRE·03:51 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·03:51 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeakness
Data Sourced
via NVD·04:16 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeaknessAffected Software

Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of CVE-2026-42170?

CVE-2026-42170 has a high severity score of 7.8.

2

How do I fix CVE-2026-42170?

To fix CVE-2026-42170, ensure you update GIMP to the latest version that addresses this vulnerability.

3

What is the impact of CVE-2026-42170?

CVE-2026-42170 can potentially lead to a heap-based buffer overflow, allowing for arbitrary code execution.

4

What is the affected software version for CVE-2026-42170?

CVE-2026-42170 affects the GIMP software when processing certain DDS files.

5

What causes CVE-2026-42170?

CVE-2026-42170 is caused by a mismatch in bits-per-pixel (bpp) values in the DDS file header resulting in an undersized heap buffer allocation.

Contact

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