Is CVE-2012-0278 actively exploited?

A proof-of-concept exploit is publicly available for CVE-2012-0278, but active exploitation has not been confirmed.

Can CVE-2012-0278 be exploited remotely?

Yes. CVE-2012-0278 is exploitable remotely over the network (CVSS attack vector: Network).

What is the CVSS score of CVE-2012-0278?

CVE-2012-0278 has a CVSS score of 9.3 (CRITICAL).

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CRITICALPOC

CVE-2012-0278

CWE-119Published: April 18, 2012· Updated: Jun 16, 2026

9.3

CVSS v3.1

Official Description

Heap-based buffer overflow in the FlashPix PlugIn before 4.3.4.0 for IrfanView might allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a .fpx file containing a crafted FlashPix image that is not properly handled during decompression.

NVD Source

Technical Analysis

CVE-2012-0278 can be exploited remotely over the network without requiring physical or adjacent access, significantly expanding the attack surface for threat actors.

Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.

A proof-of-concept (PoC) exploit exists for CVE-2012-0278. While not yet confirmed in active campaigns, the availability of PoC code increases exploitation risk substantially.

From a weakness classification perspective (CWE-119): Buffer overflow vulnerabilities can lead to arbitrary code execution or denial of service by corrupting adjacent memory.