CVE-2011-2003

Buffer overflow in win32k.sys in the kernel-mode drivers in Microsoft Windows XP SP2 and SP3, Windows Server 2003 SP2, Windows Vista SP2, Windows Server 2008…

published October 12, 2011

CVSS
—
EPSS
27%
Percentile
98.0
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

⚠️ A crafted .fon file could trigger a buffer overflow in win32k.sys, putting several Windows versions at risk! 🌪️ Think of win32k.sys as a busy restaurant kitchen. If a chef mistakenly accepts a dish that’s too large for the oven, it can cause a chaotic overflow that disrupts the entire kitchen! In this scenario, an attacker could leverage the buffer overflow to execute arbitrary code, effectively taking control of the affected system with complete authority. This could lead to data breaches, malicious software installations, or even taking over the device for nefarious purposes.

Put simply

Think of win32k.sys as a busy restaurant kitchen. If a chef mistakenly accepts a dish that’s too large for the oven, it can cause a chaotic overflow that disrupts the entire kitchen! The vulnerability lies in a buffer overflow within win32k.sys, a crucial driver in Windows environments. By exploiting this flaw through a specially crafted Font Library File (.fon), attackers can manipulate memory and execute arbitrary code.

What to do

In this scenario, an attacker could leverage the buffer overflow to execute arbitrary code, effectively taking control of the affected system with complete authority. This could lead to data breaches, malicious software installations, or even taking over the device for nefarious purposes. To protect against this vulnerability, ensure that your systems are updated with the latest patches from Microsoft. Consider disabling support for .fon files if they're not necessary for your workflow. Regularly audit your systems for any outdated software and apply security best practices. You've got this! Stay vigilant and patch those systems. Your security hero status is activated! 🛡️

The record
Technical detail
CVSS
Not scored
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.26558 · 98.0th percentile
Published
2011-10-12T01:00Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 12 OCT 01:00Z
    Buffer overflow in win32k.sys in the kernel-mode drivers in Microsoft Windows XP SP2 and SP3, Windows Server 2003 SP2, Windows Vista SP2, Windows Server 2008…
    cvelistv5