CVE-2025-59820 – Krita TGA Parser Buffer Overflow Enables Code Execution
Category:Vulnerabilities & Exploits
CVE-2025-59820 is a buffer overflow vulnerability in Krita's TGA image parser that enables arbitrary code execution when malformed TGA files are opened. Krita, a popular open-source raster graphics editor, fails to properly validate image file structure before processing—allowing attackers to craft malicious TGA files that trigger memory corruption and execute code in the context of the user running the application. Debian issued security advisory DSA-6065-1 patching both oldstable (bookworm) and stable (trixie) releases. What's concerning: Krita is widely used by digital artists and designers, making it a viable phishing target via trojanized art asset downloads. Attackers could distribute malicious TGA files through asset libraries, portfolio reviews, or collaboration platforms where artists commonly share image files. The vulnerability demonstrates classic file format exploitation—trusted file types weaponized to deliver malware.
CORTEX Protocol Intelligence Assessment
Business Impact: CVE-2025-59820 allows attacker-controlled TGA files to turn Krita into a client-side code execution vector, threatening intellectual property and customer assets on creative workstations. Organizations that rely on Krita for commercial design work risk malware infections, data theft, and contractual or regulatory fallout if compromised systems handle sensitive projects.
Strategic Intelligence Guidance
- Upgrade all Krita installations to fixed versions (5.1.5+dfsg-2+deb12u1 or 5.2.9+dfsg-1+deb13u1 on Debian, or equivalent on other platforms) and include the application in regular patch baselines.
- Educate users not to open TGA or other image files from unknown or untrusted sources, particularly when received via unsolicited emails or public file-sharing links.
- Apply least-privilege principles on creative workstations by limiting local admin rights and restricting access to only those file shares and repositories necessary for design work.
- Segment design and media production networks from core business systems and monitor for unusual process activity or outbound connections originating from Krita or associated image-handling libraries.
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Intelligence Source: CVE-2025-59820 – Krita TGA Parser Buffer Overflow Enables Code Execution | Nov 28, 2025