CVE-2020-0938
Published: November 3, 2021
Official Description
Microsoft Windows Adobe Font Manager Library contains an unspecified vulnerability when handling specially crafted multi-master fonts (Adobe Type 1 PostScript format) that allows for remote code execution for all systems except Windows 10. For systems running Windows 10, an attacker who successfully exploited the vulnerability could execute code in an AppContainer sandbox context with limited privileges and capabilities.
CISA KEV Advisory
Microsoft Windows Adobe Font Manager Library Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
Microsoft Windows Adobe Font Manager Library contains an unspecified vulnerability when handling specially crafted multi-master fonts (Adobe Type 1 PostScript format) that allows for remote code execution for all systems except Windows 10. For systems running Windows 10, an attacker who successfully exploited the vulnerability could execute code in an AppContainer sandbox context with limited privileges and capabilities.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Risk Analysis
This vulnerability in the Microsoft Windows Adobe Font Manager Library allows remote code execution through specially crafted multi-master fonts. While Windows 10 systems are somewhat mitigated by AppContainer, its high EPSS score of 0.89566 and inclusion in CISA's KEV confirm active exploitation, making it a critical threat for most Windows versions.
This vulnerability has been actively exploited in the wild and is included in CISA's KEV, confirming its use in real-world attacks. The flaw is remotely exploitable, likely via malicious documents or web content.
Administrators must apply the latest security updates for Microsoft Windows to address this vulnerability. Ensure all systems are regularly patched, especially those not running Windows 10.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2020-0938 requires local access, meaning attackers must already have a foothold on the target system.
Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
CISA has added CVE-2020-0938 to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, confirming active exploitation in the wild. U.S. federal agencies are required to patch this within the mandated timeframe, and all organizations should treat remediation as urgent.
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
All References (1)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2020-0938 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts
- !CISA KEV: Federal agencies must patch per BOD 22-01 timeline
- !Active exploitation confirmed — treat as P1