CVE-2026-81380

Analyzed Analyzed - Analysis Complete

Command Injection in GitHub Copilot for Visual Studio Code

Publication date: 2026-09-08

Last updated on: 2026-09-23

Assigner: Microsoft Corporation

Description

Improper neutralization of special elements used in a command ('command injection') in GitHub Copilot and Visual Studio Code allows an unauthorized attacker to disclose information over a network.

CVSS Scores

EPSS Scores

Probability:
Percentile:

Meta Information

Published

2026-09-08

Last Modified

2026-09-23

Generated

2026-09-30

AI Q&A

2026-09-10

EPSS Evaluated

2026-09-27

NVD

CVE-2026-81380

Affected Vendors & Products

Vendor	Product	Version / Range
microsoft	visual_studio_code	to 1.136.2 (exc)

Helpful Resources

Exploitability

CWE

KEV

CWE ID	Description
CWE-77	The product constructs all or part of a command using externally-influenced input from an upstream component, but it does not neutralize or incorrectly neutralizes special elements that could modify the intended command when it is sent to a downstream component.

Attack-Flow Graph

Executive Summary

This is a command injection vulnerability in GitHub Copilot and Visual Studio Code. It allows an unauthorized attacker to execute arbitrary commands by injecting special elements into inputs, potentially leading to information disclosure over a network.

Impact Analysis

An attacker could exploit this to run unauthorized commands on your system, potentially stealing sensitive data, modifying files, or installing malware. Users of GitHub Copilot or Visual Studio Code are at risk if the vulnerability is not patched.

Compliance Impact

This vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, violating GDPR (data protection) and HIPAA (health information privacy) requirements. Organizations may face legal penalties, reputational damage, and loss of compliance certifications if exploited.

Mitigation Strategies

Update GitHub Copilot and Visual Studio Code to the latest versions to ensure the vulnerability is patched. Disable any unnecessary network access for these applications and monitor for unusual activity or commands being executed.

Hi! I’m here to help you understand CVE-2026-81380. Ask me anything about the vulnerability, its impact, or mitigation strategies.

0/70