CVE-2026-59091 Red Hat CVE debrief

Who should care

Users of GIMP, especially those who handle image files from untrusted sources, should be aware of this vulnerability and take steps to mitigate it. This includes applying patches, restricting access to GIMP to trusted users, and monitoring usage for suspicious activity. Additionally, security teams and vulnerability management teams should review the official advisory and assess their exposure to this vulnerability. Operators and platform administrators should also be aware of the potential security impacts and take steps to protect their systems.

Technical summary

A flaw was found in GIMP's file format plugins, including those for PSD and PAA files. A remote attacker could exploit these vulnerabilities by tricking a user into opening a specially crafted image file. This could lead to unexpected application behavior or other potential security impacts without requiring further user interaction. GIMP users should prioritize patching to prevent potential security impacts. The vulnerability affects GIMP's handling of certain image file formats, and users should be cautious when opening files from untrusted sources.

Defensive priority

GIMP users should prioritize patching to prevent potential security impacts.

Recommended defensive actions

• Apply patches for GIMP file format plugins
• Restrict access to GIMP to trusted users
• Monitor GIMP usage for suspicious activity
• Review compensating controls for exposed systems while remediation is scheduled and verified
• Check relevant monitoring, detection, and logs for exposed assets that need extra review
• Track exceptions, retest remediated assets, and close the item only after evidence is documented
• Confirm whether affected product deployments exist in managed environments and assign an owner for follow-up

Evidence notes

The CVE record indicates a flaw in GIMP's file format plugins, including those for PSD and PAA files. A remote attacker could exploit these vulnerabilities by tricking a user into opening a specially crafted image file. To verify and mitigate this vulnerability, defenders should review the official advisory, assess their exposure, and apply patches or mitigations as recommended. Additionally, defenders should monitor usage for suspicious activity and restrict access to GIMP to trusted users.

Official resources