CVE-2026-38972 Notepad3 Vulnerability
Notepad3 through 6.25.822.1 contains a DLL search-order hijacking vulnerability in the About-dialog code path in src/Notepad3.c. The application calls LoadLibrary(L"MSFTEDIT.DLL") with a bare DLL name, which allows a local attacker to place a malicious MSFTEDIT.DLL in the application directory or another preferred DLL search location and achieve arbitrary code execution in the context of the user when the About dialog is opened.
Quick answer
rizonesoft Notepad3 should be reviewed and updated if it matches the affected versions. The recommended fix is to apply the vendor-supported patched version or the mitigation steps below, then retest the public website with Fixnx.
Who is affected
Affected versions
- Notepad3 through 6.25.822.1
Fixed versions
- Latest Notepad3 vendor build containing PR #5606 or later
How to fix it
CVE-2026-38972 affects rizonesoft Notepad3. The affected range is Notepad3 through 6.25.822.1. Update to Latest Notepad3 vendor build containing PR #5606 or later. Fix exposed systems first, especially where desktop installs and file search paths can be reached. If abuse is suspected, review logs and rotate secrets that may have been exposed.
- Inventory every rizonesoft Notepad3 install and note the exact version.
- Compare each install with the affected range: Notepad3 through 6.25.822.1.
- Update to Latest Notepad3 vendor build containing PR #5606 or later.
- If you cannot patch today, restrict desktop installs and file search paths to trusted users and networks.
- Back up the current configuration before changing production systems.
- Review recent logs for crashes, strange admin actions, failed logins, or unexpected access.
- Rotate passwords, tokens, certificates, or keys if compromise is suspected.
- Document the change, owner, date, and final version.
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Verify the fix
- Confirm the installed version now matches the fixed guidance: Latest Notepad3 vendor build containing PR #5606 or later.
- Confirm old affected versions are no longer deployed: Notepad3 through 6.25.822.1.
- Confirm desktop installs and file search paths is limited to the smallest needed group.
- Rerun the relevant Fixnx scan or internal security check after the change.
- Save logs, screenshots, or package output as proof of the fix.
Related categories
Trusted references
FAQ
What is affected by CVE-2026-38972?
rizonesoft Notepad3 versions listed as affected should be reviewed: Notepad3 through 6.25.822.1.
What should I fix first?
Start with internet-facing sites, admin panels, login flows, plugins, themes, modules, packages, and systems that process user-controlled input or sensitive data.
How do I confirm the fix worked?
Apply the patched version or mitigation, clear caches where relevant, retest the affected workflow, and run a new Fixnx scan to verify public website exposure signals.
How are Fixnx security risk categories chosen?
Fixnx keeps one canonical risk page and assigns only broad, relevant categories such as ecosystem, technology area, or vulnerability class.