Microsoft · Windows
CVE-2026-96951
Windows Shell Security Feature Bypass Vulnerability
What it is
Improper neutralization of special elements used in a command ('command injection') in Windows Shell allows an unauthorized attacker to bypass a security feature over a network.
CISA: Microsoft Windows Shell contains a command injection vulnerability that allows an unauthorized attacker to bypass a security feature over a network.
What to do
Apply mitigations in accordance with vendor instructions, ensuring compliance with CISA’s BOD 26-04 Prioritizing Security Updates Based on Risk (see URL in Notes) guidance and CISA’s “Forensics Triage Requirements” (see URL in Notes). Follow applicable BOD 26-04 guidance for cloud services or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable. Stakeholders are responsible for evaluating each asset's internet exposure and ensuring adherence to BOD 26-04 patching guidelines.
Deadline for US federal agencies: October 16, 2026
More exploited flaws from Microsoft
| Added | Vulnerability | Product | Severity | Attack chance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 8, 2026 | Link Following | Windows | High 7.8 | 0.4% |
| Sep 8, 2026 | Heap-Based Buffer Overflow | Windows | High 7.8 | 0.4% |
| May 20, 2026 | Buffer Overflow | Windows | Critical 9.8 | 99% |
| Apr 28, 2026 | Protection Mechanism Failure | Windows | Medium 4.3 | 71% |
| Apr 13, 2026 | Out-of-Bounds Read | Windows | High 7.8 | 12% |
| Apr 13, 2026 | Link Following | Windows | High 7.8 | 4.6% |
| Feb 17, 2026 | Microsoft Windows Video ActiveX Control Remote Code Execution | Windows | High 8.8 | 77% |
| Feb 10, 2026 | Shell Protection Mechanism Failure | Windows | High 8.8 | 61% |
Sources: Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (CISA, public domain), CVE records (cve.org) and EPSS (FIRST). The chance of attacks is the EPSS estimate that someone will try to exploit the flaw in the next 30 days.