CVE-2026-78461

CVE-2026-78461 is a high-severity vulnerability in Microsoft Visual Studio Code with a CVSS 3.x base score of 7.4. 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-22.

Key facts

Description

Improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory ('path traversal') in Visual Studio Code allows an unauthorized attacker to bypass a security feature over a network.

Frequently asked questions

What is CVE-2026-78461?
Improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory ('path traversal') in Visual Studio Code allows an unauthorized attacker to bypass a security feature over a network.
How severe is CVE-2026-78461?
CVE-2026-78461 has a CVSS 3.x base score of 7.4, rated high severity. It is exploitable over network with low attack complexity, requires no privileges and user interaction. Impact on confidentiality is high, integrity none, and availability none.
Is CVE-2026-78461 being actively exploited?
It is not currently listed in CISA's KEV catalog. Its EPSS exploit-prediction score is 1% (63rd percentile), an estimate of the probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.
What products are affected by CVE-2026-78461?
CVE-2026-78461 affects Microsoft Visual Studio Code. See the affected-products list for the exact vulnerable versions.
How do I fix CVE-2026-78461?
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-2026-78461 published?
CVE-2026-78461 was published on 2026-09-08 and last updated on 2026-09-11.

References

Affected products (1)

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