CVE-2018-8174VulnerabilityPublished 02/15/2022Updated 10/24/2026

CVE-2018-8174: Microsoft Windows VBScript Engine Out-of-Bounds Write Vulnerability

Affects Microsoft WindowsSource CISA KEV

Severity

High

No CVSS score published yet

Exploitation: Actively exploited – in CISA KEV since 02/15/2022
KEV deadline: 08/15/2022
Ransomware: Used in ransomware campaigns
EPSS: 88.2% chance of exploitation in 30 days – higher than 99% of CVEs

What to do

CISA required action

Apply updates per vendor instructions.

nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2018-8174 (opens in a new tab)

Description

CVE-2018-8174 is a remote code execution vulnerability in the Microsoft Windows VBScript engine caused by an out-of-bounds write when handling objects in memory. This flaw allows attackers to execute arbitrary code remotely. It has been exploited in the wild and is associated with known ransomware campaigns.

Summary

This vulnerability arises from improper memory handling in the VBScript engine of Microsoft Windows, specifically an out-of-bounds write condition. An attacker can exploit this flaw remotely to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The vulnerability is tracked as CVE-2018-8174 and has been observed in active exploitation scenarios, including ransomware campaigns.

Impact

Successful exploitation can lead to remote code execution, allowing attackers to run arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected user. This can result in system compromise, data loss, or further malware deployment. The vulnerability has been actively exploited in the wild, increasing the risk to unpatched systems.

Mitigation

Patch status is not yet confirmed — check the vendor advisory for current remediation guidance. Since no patch links or official remediation details are provided, users should monitor Microsoft's security advisories for updates and apply any available fixes promptly. Employing standard security best practices to limit exposure to VBScript content may reduce risk until a patch is applied.

Weaknesses

CWE-787Out-of-bounds Write (opens in a new tab)

What to do

Description

AnalysisAI-generated, updated 10/24/2026, 10:11:39 UTC

Weaknesses

References

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