CVE-2020-17163 Visual Studio Code Python Extension Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

High 7.8 Published 29 Dec 2023 Updated 19 Aug 2026

Attackers can execute arbitrary code via the Visual Studio Code Python extension, requiring users to update the extension.

Exploited in the wild: Not known
Login needed: Not needed
Attackable: Local or same network only
Victim action needed: A user has to click or open something
Fix: None listed

What is CVE-2020-17163?

CVE-2020-17163 is a high-severity code injection vulnerability in Microsoft Python extension for Visual Studio Code, published on 29 Dec 2023. It can only be exploited from the same machine or local network, and only if a user opens a file or follows a link.

Official description

Visual Studio Code Python Extension Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

Which versions are affected by CVE-2020-17163?

It affects 1 product.

Products include Microsoft Python.

How do I fix CVE-2020-17163?

No fix has been published for CVE-2020-17163 yet. Limit exposure of the affected software until one is available.

Upgrade, and never evaluate templates, expressions or code built from user input. More about Code injection.

Is CVE-2020-17163 being exploited?

There is no known exploitation of CVE-2020-17163 in the wild and no public exploit code.

Sources

Also known as GHSA-vrgr-679p-vf6w.