CyberSecBulletin
CVE-2026-54981NVD status: Analyzed

Python extension for Visual Studio Code: Protection Mechanism Failure

Published Updated By the CyberSecBulletin desk

CVE-2026-54981 is a high-severity protection mechanism failure vulnerability in Python extension for Visual Studio Code from Microsoft, with a CVSS 3.1 base score of 7.8 out of 10. It can be exploited with local access to the system by an unauthenticated attacker, but only if a user takes part, for example by opening a link or file. The record lists version 2026.3.1 as the first without the flaw, so updating Python extension for Visual Studio Code to that release or later removes the exposure. There is no confirmed exploitation so far. EPSS estimates a 0.47% chance of exploitation within 30 days, which is low compared with other CVEs.

Next patch cycle

High severity with no evidence of exploitation so far.

What to do

  1. Update Python extension for Visual Studio Code to 2026.3.1 or a later version.
  2. Read the advisory on msrc.microsoft.com for workarounds and exact fixed builds.
  3. Because the attack needs a user to take part, warn users about unexpected links and files related to this product until it is patched.

Affected products and versions

VendorProductAffected versionsFixed in
MicrosoftPython extension for Visual Studio Code2020 up to, but not including, 2026.3.12026.3.1
MicrosoftPythonNot specified in the recordNot stated

Version data comes from the organisation that assigned the CVE. Confirm against the vendor advisory before deciding you are unaffected.

How the severity score breaks down

Attack vector
LocalThe attacker needs local access or must trick a user into running something.
Attack complexity
LowNo special conditions are needed; the attack works reliably.
Privileges required
NoneNo account or login is needed.
User interaction
RequiredA user must take an action such as opening a file or link.
Scope
UnchangedImpact stays within the vulnerable component.
Confidentiality
HighAll data handled by the component can be read.
Integrity
HighData or code can be modified at will.
Availability
HighThe component can be taken down completely.

Vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H. Scored by CNA (microsoft.com).

Official description

Inclusion of functionality from untrusted control sphere in Visual Studio Code - Python extension allows an unauthorized attacker to bypass a security feature locally.

Source: the CVE record as published by its numbering authority, via NVD and CVE.org.

The underlying weakness: Protection Mechanism Failure

The product does not use or incorrectly uses a protection mechanism that provides sufficient defense against directed attacks against the product.

More Protection Mechanism Failure vulnerabilities (CWE-693)

Timeline

  1. CISA published its SSVC assessment (exploitation: none, automatable: no, technical impact: total).
  2. CVE record published.
  3. Record last changed materially (score, affected products, status or references).

References

Recent Protection Mechanism Failure vulnerabilities

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