Notepad++: shortcuts.xml Macro HMAC Bypass Enables Conditional Elevated Command Execution
CVE-2026-71858 is fixed in Notepad++ on 1 platform by Notepad++ 8.9.7 (version 8.9.7), released July 14, 2026. It is not reported as exploited. Patch Radar priority: Routine.
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.
Where it's fixed
| Product | Fixed in | Fix | Released |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows apps | |||
| Notepad++ | 8.9.7 | Notepad++ 8.9.7 | Jul 14, 2026 |
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