How severe is CVE-2013-0078?

CVE-2013-0078 has a CVSS 2.0 base score of 7.2, rated high severity.

Is CVE-2013-0078 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-2013-0078?

CVE-2013-0078 affects Microsoft Windows Defender. See the affected-products list for the exact vulnerable versions.

How do I fix CVE-2013-0078?

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-2013-0078 published?

CVE-2013-0078 was published on 2013-04-09 and last updated on 2026-06-16.

CVE-2013-0078

CVE-2013-0078 is a high-severity vulnerability in Microsoft Windows Defender 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. The underlying weakness is classified as CWE-20.

Key facts

Severity: High (CVSS 2.0 base score 7.2)
EPSS exploit prediction: 2% (76th percentile)
Actively exploited: Not listed in CISA KEV
Weakness: CWE-20
Affected product: Microsoft Windows Defender
Published: 2013-04-09
Last modified: 2026-06-16

Description

The Microsoft Antimalware Client in Windows Defender on Windows 8 and Windows RT uses an incorrect pathname for MsMpEng.exe, which allows local users to gain privileges via a crafted application, aka "Microsoft Antimalware Improper Pathname Vulnerability."

Frequently asked questions

What is CVE-2013-0078?: The Microsoft Antimalware Client in Windows Defender on Windows 8 and Windows RT uses an incorrect pathname for MsMpEng.exe, which allows local users to gain privileges via a crafted application, aka "Microsoft Antimalware Improper Pathname Vulnerability."
How severe is CVE-2013-0078?: CVE-2013-0078 has a CVSS 2.0 base score of 7.2, rated high severity.
Is CVE-2013-0078 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-2013-0078?: CVE-2013-0078 affects Microsoft Windows Defender. See the affected-products list for the exact vulnerable versions.
How do I fix CVE-2013-0078?: 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-2013-0078 published?: CVE-2013-0078 was published on 2013-04-09 and last updated on 2026-06-16.

References

Affected products (1)

cpe:2.3:a:microsoft:windows_defender:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*

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