CVE-2026-20841

Name: CVE-2026-20841
Creator: NVD / NIST
Published: 2026-02-10T18:16:22.643+00:00
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/

HIGHCVSS 7.8/10EPSS 11.65%

Last modified Jun 17, 2026

CVE-2026-20841 is a high-severity vulnerability rated 7.8/10 on the CVSS scale. Improper neutralization of special elements used in a command ('command injection') in Windows Notepad App allows an unauthorized attacker to execute code locally.. EPSS estimates a 11.65% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days.

Description

Improper neutralization of special elements used in a command ('command injection') in Windows Notepad App allows an unauthorized attacker to execute code locally.

Metrics

CVSS 3.1

7.8/10

CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H

EPSS Probability

11.65%

95.5th percentile

Probability of exploitation in the next 30 days. Learn more

Weakness Enumeration

CWE-77

Affected Software

Vendor	Product	Versions
Microsoft	Windows Notepad	< 11.2510

References

https://msrc.microsoft.com/update-guide/vulnerability/CVE-2026-20841Vendor Advisory
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=46971516Issue Tracking

Timeline

Published: Feb 10, 2026
Last Modified: Jun 17, 2026
Status: Analyzed

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CVE-2026-20841?

Improper neutralization of special elements used in a command ('command injection') in Windows Notepad App allows an unauthorized attacker to execute code locally.

How severe is CVE-2026-20841?

CVE-2026-20841 has a CVSS score of 7.8/10 (HIGH severity). The EPSS model estimates a 11.65% probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.

How do I fix CVE-2026-20841?

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-2026-20841?

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

Scan your code now

Source: NVD / NIST