Windows Notepad App Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
Windows Notepad, a seemingly innocuous text editor, has been hit with a critical remote code execution vulnerability (CVE-2026-20841), allowing attackers to run arbitrary code over a network via command injection. This unexpected flaw in such a fundamental application highlights the pervasive nature of security risks, sparking considerable interest on Hacker News. With a high CVSS score of 8.8, this vulnerability underscores the severe danger it poses, making it a critical concern for users.
The Lowdown
A serious security flaw, identified as CVE-2026-20841, has been disclosed for the Windows Notepad application, revealing a remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability. This critical flaw allows an unauthorized attacker to execute code on a user's system over a network, leveraging a command injection technique.
- Vulnerability Type: The issue is classified as an "Improper neutralization of special elements used in a command," commonly known as command injection.
- Affected Application: The flaw specifically targets the native Windows Notepad application.
- Impact: A successful exploit permits an unauthorized attacker to achieve remote code execution, granting them control over the affected system.
- Severity: The vulnerability carries a high CVSS 3.1 score of 8.8, indicating its critical nature and potential for severe impact.
- Affected Versions: Windows Notepad versions from 11.0.0 up to, but not including, 11.2510 are vulnerable.
- Disclosure Date: The CVE record was published on February 10, 2026, and updated the following day. This RCE vulnerability in Windows Notepad serves as a potent reminder that even the most basic and trusted applications are not immune to critical security flaws. Users of affected versions are strongly advised to update their systems to patched versions to mitigate the significant risk posed by this high-severity issue.