CVE-2026-2516 Unidocs ezPDF DRM Reader/ezPDF Reader SHFOLDER.dll uncontrolled search path
Local attackers can exploit an uncontrolled search path in SHFOLDER.dll to execute arbitrary code, requiring users to upgrade to the latest version.
- Exploited in the wild
- Not known
- Login needed
- Any signed-in user
- Attackable
- Local or same network only
- Victim action needed
- Not needed
- Fix
- None listed
What is CVE-2026-2516?
CVE-2026-2516 is a high-severity path traversal vulnerability in Unidocs ezPDF DRM Reader, published on 15 Feb 2026. It can only be exploited from the same machine or local network, with no action from the victim.
Official description
A vulnerability was identified in Unidocs ezPDF DRM Reader and ezPDF Reader 2.0/3.0.0.4. This affects an unknown part in the library SHFOLDER.dll. Such manipulation leads to uncontrolled search path. The attack needs to be performed locally. Attacks of this nature are highly complex. It is indicated that the exploitability is difficult. The exploit is publicly available and might be used. Upgrading the affected component is recommended. The vendor explains: "[W]e have already addressed similar DLL search path vulnerability patterns through prior security updates. (...) Users are advised to use the latest version provided by the vendor."
Which versions are affected by CVE-2026-2516?
How do I fix CVE-2026-2516?
No fix has been published for CVE-2026-2516 yet. Limit exposure of the affected software until one is available.
Upgrade, and resolve every user-supplied path against an allowed base folder before opening it. More about Path traversal.
Is CVE-2026-2516 being exploited?
It is not confirmed as exploited in the wild, but public exploit code for CVE-2026-2516 exists.
Sources
Also known as GHSA-r996-q9x2-5wwf.