CVE-2026-71858

What it is

Notepad++ is a free and open-source source code editor. Prior to 8.9.7, macros loaded from an attacker-controlled shortcuts.xml bypass the HMAC validation applied to UserDefinedCommands and can invoke Scintilla actions and the internal Open in Default Viewer command in an elevated Notepad++ process, allowing protected file modification and conditional elevated command execution when a local attacker influences settingsDir and a user triggers the macro. This issue is fixed in version 8.9.7.

At a glance

Exploitability

Can be exploited locally on the machine with a low-privilege account, but needs a user to act. High risk of data exposure, data tampering, service disruption.

Exploit odds

0.1% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days (EPSS).

Fix

A patch, advisory or fixed version is referenced. Upgrade or apply it.

Timeline

1. 2026-08-17 20:16 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2. 2026-09-09 21:11 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Details

Published

2026-08-17 20:16 UTC

Last modified

2026-09-09 21:11 UTC

Exploit probability

0.1% · EPSS, next 30 days

Weakness

CWE-78 · OS command injection

Record status

Awaiting Analysis

Attack profile CVSS 4.0 · 5.4

Attack vector

Local

Complexity

High

Attack requirements

Present

Privileges needed

Low

User interaction

Passive

Confidentiality

High

Integrity

High

Availability

High