CVE-2020-0796VulnerabilityPublished 02/10/2022Updated 10/24/2026

CVE-2020-0796: Microsoft SMBv3 Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

Affects Microsoft SMBv3Source CISA KEV

Severity

High

No CVSS score published yet

Exploitation: Actively exploited – in CISA KEV since 02/10/2022
KEV deadline: 08/10/2022
Ransomware: Used in ransomware campaigns
EPSS: 99.8% 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-2020-0796 (opens in a new tab)

Description

CVE-2020-0796 is a remote code execution vulnerability in Microsoft SMBv3 protocol. It allows an attacker to execute code on affected servers or clients by exploiting how SMBv3 handles certain requests. This vulnerability has been exploited in the wild and is known to be used in ransomware campaigns.

Summary

This vulnerability exists in the Microsoft Server Message Block 3.1.1 (SMBv3) protocol due to improper handling of specific requests, enabling remote code execution. Successful exploitation grants an attacker the ability to run arbitrary code on the target system, potentially leading to full system compromise. It has been actively exploited in the wild and leveraged in ransomware attacks.

Impact

An attacker who exploits this vulnerability can execute arbitrary code remotely on affected SMBv3 servers or clients, potentially leading to full system compromise, data loss, or ransomware infection. The vulnerability has been confirmed as exploited in the wild, increasing the risk to vulnerable systems.

Mitigation

Patch status is not yet confirmed — check the vendor advisory for current remediation guidance.

Weaknesses

CWE-119Buffer Errors (Memory Bounds) (opens in a new tab)

What to do

Description

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

Weaknesses

References

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