Users report issues accessing Microsoft Paint security patch for Windows 11

Microsoft has acknowledged a high-severity vulnerability in the Windows 11 Paint application, designated CVE-2026-83844, with a CVSS score of 8.1. While the company stated that exploitation of this flaw is difficult and no active attacks have been observed, it remains a security concern that requires patching.

The fix is reportedly bundled within Paint version 11.2609.401.0. However, multiple users and IT administrators have reported that the Microsoft Store fails to push this update to their devices, leaving them on older, vulnerable versions. This disconnection suggests a flaw in the update delivery mechanism rather than a failure to publish the patch entirely.

Because the Paint app is serviced independently through the Microsoft Store, standard Windows system updates do not necessarily patch the software. Microsoft has yet to clarify if the update was mistakenly withdrawn or if there is a discrepancy in the version numbering provided in its official security advisory.