CVE-2020-0604

Visual Studio Code Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

Description

A remote code execution vulnerability exists in Visual Studio Code when it process environment variables after opening a project. An attacker who successfully exploited the vulnerability could run arbitrary code in the context of the current user. If the current user is logged on with administrative user rights, an attacker could take control of the affected system. An attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full user rights. To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker would need to convince a target to clone a repository and open it in Visual Studio Code. Attacker-specified code would execute when the target opened the integrated terminal. The update address the vulnerability by modifying the way Visual Studio Code handles environment variables.

7.8
CVSS
Severity: High
CVSS 3.1 •
CVSS 2.0 •
EPSS 7.69% Top 10%
Vendor Advisory microsoft.com
Affected: Microsoft Visual Studio Code
Published at:
Updated at:

References

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the severity of CVE-2020-0604?
CVE-2020-0604 has been scored as a high severity vulnerability.
How to fix CVE-2020-0604?
To fix CVE-2020-0604, make sure you are using an up-to-date version of the affected component(s) by checking the vendor release notes. As for now, there are no other specific guidelines available.
Is CVE-2020-0604 being actively exploited in the wild?
It is possible that CVE-2020-0604 is being exploited or will be exploited in a near future based on public information. According to its EPSS score, there is a ~8% probability that this vulnerability will be exploited by malicious actors in the next 30 days.
What software or system is affected by CVE-2020-0604?
CVE-2020-0604 affects Microsoft Visual Studio Code.
This platform uses data from the NIST NVD, MITRE CVE, MITRE CWE, First.org and CISA KEV but is not endorsed or certified by these entities. CVE is a registred trademark of the MITRE Corporation and the authoritative source of CVE content is MITRE's CVE web site. CWE is a registred trademark of the MITRE Corporation and the authoritative source of CWE content is MITRE's CWE web site.
© 2025 Under My Watch. All Rights Reserved.