CVE-2022-26488
In Python before 3.10.3 on Windows, local users can gain privileges because the search path is inadequately secured. The installer may allow a local...
- Published
- Mar 7, 2022
- Updated
- Oct 14, 2026
- Assigning CNA
- mitre
- Evidence observed
- Aug 5, 2026
Primary CVSS
nvd · CVSS 3.1
CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:H/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:HLow · next 30 days
- Percentile
- 71.3%
- Model date
- Oct 14, 2026
EPSS is a statistical estimate, not a certainty or a measure of impact. Combine it with CVSS, KEV status, exposure and your environment.
Summary
In Python before 3.10.3 on Windows, local users can gain privileges because the search path is inadequately secured. The installer may allow a local attacker to add user-writable directories to the system search path. To exploit, an administrator must have installed Python for all users and enabled PATH entries. A non-administrative user can trigger a repair that incorrectly adds user-writable paths into PATH, enabling search-path hijacking of other users and system services. This affects Python (CPython) through 3.7.12, 3.8.x through 3.8.12, 3.9.x through 3.9.10, and 3.10.x through 3.10.2.
Sources
- PyPATHPwnerPoC
POC Exploit for CVE-2022-26488 - Python for Windows (CPython) escalation of privilege vulnerability, discovered by the Lockheed Martin Red Team.
Responsible use
Use vulnerability information only on systems you own or are authorized to test. Kitploit links to public research metadata and does not store exploit code or malicious payloads.