How severe is CVE-2005-0545?

CVE-2005-0545 has a CVSS 2.0 base score of 7.2, rated high severity.

Is CVE-2005-0545 being actively exploited?

It is not currently listed in CISA's KEV catalog. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score is 2% (76th percentile), an estimate of the probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.

What products are affected by CVE-2005-0545?

CVE-2005-0545 primarily affects Microsoft Windows 2000. In total, 6 product configurations (CPEs) are listed as vulnerable; see the affected-products list for the exact versions.

How do I fix CVE-2005-0545?

Review the linked vendor and NVD advisories for patched versions and mitigations, then upgrade or apply the recommended workaround. Given its high severity, prioritise patching exposed systems.

When was CVE-2005-0545 published?

CVE-2005-0545 was published on 2005-05-02 and last updated on 2026-06-16.

CVE-2005-0545

CVE-2005-0545 is a high-severity vulnerability in Microsoft Windows 2000 with a CVSS 2.0 base score of 7.2. It is not currently listed as actively exploited by CISA, and its EPSS exploit-prediction score is low.

Key facts

Severity: High (CVSS 2.0 base score 7.2)
EPSS exploit prediction: 2% (76th percentile)
Actively exploited: Not listed in CISA KEV
Affected product: Microsoft Windows 2000
Published: 2005-05-02
Last modified: 2026-06-16

Description

Microsoft Windows XP Pro SP2 and Windows 2000 Server SP4 running Active Directory allow local users to bypass group policies that restrict access to hidden drives by using the browse feature in Office 10 applications such as Word or Excel, or using a flash drive. NOTE: this issue has been disputed in a followup post.

Frequently asked questions

What is CVE-2005-0545?: Microsoft Windows XP Pro SP2 and Windows 2000 Server SP4 running Active Directory allow local users to bypass group policies that restrict access to hidden drives by using the browse feature in Office 10 applications such as Word or Excel, or using a flash drive. NOTE: this issue has been disputed in a followup post.
How severe is CVE-2005-0545?: CVE-2005-0545 has a CVSS 2.0 base score of 7.2, rated high severity.
Is CVE-2005-0545 being actively exploited?: It is not currently listed in CISA's KEV catalog. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score is 2% (76th percentile), an estimate of the probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.
What products are affected by CVE-2005-0545?: CVE-2005-0545 primarily affects Microsoft Windows 2000. In total, 6 product configurations (CPEs) are listed as vulnerable; see the affected-products list for the exact versions.
How do I fix CVE-2005-0545?: Review the linked vendor and NVD advisories for patched versions and mitigations, then upgrade or apply the recommended workaround. Given its high severity, prioritise patching exposed systems.
When was CVE-2005-0545 published?: CVE-2005-0545 was published on 2005-05-02 and last updated on 2026-06-16.

References

Affected products (6)

cpe:2.3:o:microsoft:windows_2000:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*
cpe:2.3:o:microsoft:windows_2000:*:sp1:*:*:*:*:*:*
cpe:2.3:o:microsoft:windows_2000:*:sp2:*:*:*:*:*:*
cpe:2.3:o:microsoft:windows_2000:*:sp3:*:*:*:*:*:*
cpe:2.3:o:microsoft:windows_2000:*:sp4:*:*:*:*:*:*
cpe:2.3:o:microsoft:windows_xp:*:gold:professional:*:*:*:*:*

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