CVE-2008-5556

Name: CVE-2008-5556
Creator: NVD / NIST
Published: 2008-12-12T18:30:03.377+00:00
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/

UnknownEPSS 11.22%

Last modified Jun 16, 2026

CVE-2008-5556 is a vulnerability of currently unknown severity. The XSS Filter in Microsoft Internet Explorer 8.0 Beta 2 does not recognize attack patterns designed to operate against web pages that are encoded with utf-7, which allows remote attackers to bypass the XSS protection mechanism and conduct XSS attacks by injecting crafted utf-7 content. NOTE: the vendor reportedly disputes this issue, stating "Behaviour is by design.. EPSS estimates a 11.22% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days.

Description

The XSS Filter in Microsoft Internet Explorer 8.0 Beta 2 does not recognize attack patterns designed to operate against web pages that are encoded with utf-7, which allows remote attackers to bypass the XSS protection mechanism and conduct XSS attacks by injecting crafted utf-7 content. NOTE: the vendor reportedly disputes this issue, stating "Behaviour is by design.

Metrics

EPSS Probability

11.22%

95.4th percentile

Probability of exploitation in the next 30 days. Learn more

Weakness Enumeration

CWE-79

Affected Software

Vendor	Product	Versions	Update
Microsoft	Internet Explorer	8	Beta2

References

Timeline

Published: Dec 12, 2008
Last Modified: Jun 16, 2026
Status: Modified

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CVE-2008-5556?

How severe is CVE-2008-5556?

Severity scoring for CVE-2008-5556 is pending analysis. The EPSS model estimates a 11.22% probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.

How do I fix CVE-2008-5556?

Check the vendor references and advisories linked above for patched versions and mitigation guidance. You can also run a Strix scan to test if your systems are affected.

Are you affected by CVE-2008-5556?

Run a free Strix scan to check your systems for this vulnerability.

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Source: NVD / NIST