CVE-2015-2462 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
ATMFD.DLL in the Windows Adobe Type Manager Library in Microsoft Windows Vista SP2, Windows Server 2008 SP2 and R2 SP1, Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012 Gold and R2, Windows RT Gold and 8.1, Windows 10, and .NET Framework 3.0 SP2, 3.5, 3.5.1, 4, 4.5, 4.5.1, 4.5.2, and 4.6 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted OpenType font, aka "OpenType Font Parsing Vulnerability."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/17/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-2462 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow in the Windows Adobe Type Manager Library component, specifically within the ATMFD.DLL module. This flaw exists in multiple versions of the Windows operating system and .NET Framework implementations, making it particularly dangerous due to its widespread presence across enterprise environments. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation during the parsing of OpenType font files, which are commonly used for typography rendering across various Microsoft applications and services.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a maliciously crafted OpenType font file is processed by the affected Windows components. The flaw manifests as a buffer overflow in the heap memory management system, where the application fails to properly validate the size of font data structures before copying them into fixed-size buffers. This allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations with malicious code, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the compromised process. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be triggered through multiple attack vectors including email attachments, web downloads, and network shares, making it highly exploitable in real-world scenarios.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-2462 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a persistent foothold in targeted systems. When successfully exploited, this vulnerability enables attackers to escalate privileges, install backdoors, and maintain long-term access to compromised systems. The vulnerability affects not only desktop operating systems but also server environments, making it a significant threat to enterprise networks where Windows servers often process untrusted font content. The widespread adoption of affected Windows versions means that organizations across various industries remain at risk, particularly those with legacy systems that may not have received timely security updates.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate deployment of Microsoft security patches, which address the buffer overflow through proper input validation and memory management controls. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure, while also deploying application whitelisting solutions to prevent execution of untrusted font files. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, heap-based buffer overflow, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation typically involves executing malicious code within the context of legitimate applications. Additionally, security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual font processing activities and memory allocation patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, while regular vulnerability assessments should verify patch compliance across all affected system components.