CVE-2020-1020
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
A vulnerability in the Microsoft Windows Adobe Font Manager Library, when handling specially crafted multi-master fonts, can lead to remote code execution. The very high EPSS score of 0.87984 indicates a significant likelihood of exploitation, and its presence in CISA's KEV confirms active exploitation. This is a critical vulnerability, especially for older Windows systems, as it can lead to full system compromise.
This vulnerability is actively exploited in the wild. The nature of the flaw, involving specially crafted fonts, suggests it is remotely exploitable, likely through malicious documents or web content.
Apply all available security updates for Microsoft Windows. For systems where updates are not immediately feasible, consider disabling or restricting the handling of untrusted Adobe Type 1 PostScript fonts.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2020-1020 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-2020-1020 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-2020-1020 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