| Multiple vulnerabilities have been discovered in Notepad++, the most severe of which could result in arbitrary code execution. Notepad++ is a free and open-source text and source code editor for use with Microsoft Windows. Successful exploitation of the most severe of these vulnerabilities could allow for arbitrary code execution in the context of the logged on user. Depending on the privileges associated with the user an attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full user rights. Users whose accounts are configured to have fewer user rights on the system could be less impacted than those who operate with administrative user rights. |
| Threat Intelligence Proof of concept exploits have also been published for these vulnerabilities. |
| System Affected – Notepad++ prior to 8.5.7 |
| Risk Government: – Large and medium government entities: Medium – Small government entities: Medium |
| Businesses: – Large and medium business entities: Medium – Small business entities: Medium |
| Home Users: Low |
| Technical Summary Multiple vulnerabilities have been discovered in Notepad++, the most severe of which could allow for arbitrary code execution. |
| Recommendations |
| Apply appropriate updates provided by Notepad++ to vulnerable systems immediately after appropriate testing. Apply the Principle of Least Privilege to all systems and services. Run all software as a non-privileged user (one without administrative privileges) to diminish the effects of a successful attack. Restrict execution of code to a virtual environment on or in transit to an endpoint system. Use capabilities to detect and block conditions that may lead to or be indicative of a software exploit occurring. Restrict use of certain websites, block downloads/attachments, block Javascript, restrict browser extensions, etc. Inform and educate users regarding the threats posed by hypertext links contained in emails or attachments especially from un-trusted sources. Remind users not to visit un-trusted websites or follow links provided by unknown or un-trusted sources. |