Monitor vulnerabilities like this one. Sign up free to get alerted when software you use is affected.
7.8

GIMP Can Run Malicious Code if You Open a Bad File

CVE-2026-2044
Summary

GIMP's ability to open PGM files can be exploited by hackers if you open a specially crafted file. This could allow them to run their own code on your computer. To stay safe, be cautious when opening files from unknown sources and keep your GIMP software up to date with the latest security patches.

Original title
GIMP PGM File Parsing Uninitialized Memory Remote Code Execution Vulnerability. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of GIMP. User interact...
Original description
GIMP PGM File Parsing Uninitialized Memory 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 PGM files. The issue results from the lack of proper initialization of memory prior to accessing it. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current process. Was ZDI-CAN-28158.
osv CVSS3.1 7.8
Published: 20 Feb 2026 · Updated: 13 Mar 2026 · First seen: 13 Mar 2026