CVE-2026-85288

What it is

Notepad++ is a free and open-source source code editor. Prior to 8.9.8, Notepad++ incompletely enforces shortcuts.xml HMAC validation because WM_MACRODLGRUNMACRO, the Run a Macro Multiple Times entry point, calls macroPlayback() without the validation used by command(). A tampered shortcuts.xml macro that is blocked through the Macro menu or a shortcut key can therefore execute through the multi-run dialog and invoke internal Notepad++ commands, including commands that launch external programs, in the current user context. This issue is fixed in version 8.9.8.

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. 2026-09-22 18:17 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2. 2026-09-26 00:16 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Details

Published

2026-09-22 18:17 UTC

Last modified

2026-09-26 00:16 UTC

Exploit probability

0.1% · EPSS, next 30 days

Weakness

CWE-78 · OS command injection

Record status

Awaiting Analysis

Attack profile CVSS 3.1 · 6.7

Attack vector

Local

Complexity

High

Privileges needed

Low

User interaction

Required

Scope

Unchanged

Confidentiality

High

Integrity

High

Availability

High