Critical Security Flaw in FontForge: Remote Code Execution Vulnerabilities
Summary
ALSA-2026:7677: Important: fontforge security update. Affects fontforge versions < 20200314-7.el8_10. Fixed in 20200314-7.el8_10. How to fix ↓
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Background
FontForge is a widely used open-source font editor that supports various font formats, including PostScript, TrueType, OpenType, and CID-keyed fonts. It allows users to create and modify both outline and bitmap fonts, making it a versatile tool for designers and typographers. However, recent vulnerabilities have been identified that could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code remotely, posing significant risks to users.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerabilities in FontForge stem from improper handling of certain file formats, leading to potential remote code execution. Specifically, the issues include a heap-based buffer overflow in BMP file parsing (CVE-2025-15279), a use-after-free vulnerability in SFD file parsing (CVE-2025-15269), an arbitrary code execution vulnerability due to buffer overflow in SFD file parsing (CVE-2025-15275), and another remote code execution vulnerability via malicious SFD file parsing (CVE-2025-15270). These vulnerabilities can be exploited by attackers to execute malicious code on a victim's system, potentially leading to data breaches or system compromise.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
20200314-7.el8_10
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo dnf update fontforgeTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary measure, users are advised to avoid opening untrusted BMP or SFD files until the package is updated. Additionally, consider using alternative font editing software that does not have these vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
The identified vulnerabilities in FontForge pose significant security risks, allowing for potential remote code execution. Users are strongly advised to update to the latest patched version to mitigate these risks. Additionally, utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor for such vulnerabilities in real-time.
See every vulnerability recorded for fontforge →
FAQ
FontForge is an open-source font editor that allows users to create and modify various font formats.
The vulnerabilities could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code on a user's system, leading to potential data breaches or system compromise.
You can use Vulert to monitor and alert for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. Visit Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected without needing to sign up.
As a workaround, avoid opening untrusted BMP or SFD files and consider using alternative font editing software.
For detailed information about the vulnerabilities, refer to the CVE pages listed in the advisory.
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for fontforge.
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