External risk intelligence

WatchGuard Firebox Code Execution Vulnerability.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2022-26318

A vulnerability in WatchGuard Firebox and XTM appliances allows unauthenticated code execution. This could lead to unauthorized control of systems, impacting data and business operations. Addressing this flaw is important for mitigating potential risks.

5Halo Surface Signal

Watchguard Fireware

12.0.0 to before 12.1.312.5 to before 12.5.912.7.0 to before 12.7.212.1.312.5.912.7.2

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2022-26318

The vulnerability affects WatchGuard Firebox and XTM appliances. These devices are designed to function as network edge gateways and firewalls, which are inherently public-facing and positioned at the perimeter of a network to manage and inspect internet traffic.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

WatchGuard Firebox and XTM appliances are affected by a vulnerability that allows an unauthenticated user to execute arbitrary code. This flaw could enable an attacker to compromise the integrity and availability of the appliance, potentially leading to significant business disruptions. The ability to execute arbitrary code poses a severe risk to organizational data and systems.

  • WatchGuard Firebox and XTM appliances
  • Unauthenticated code execution flaw
  • Compromise of data and systems

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

This vulnerability allows an unauthenticated user to execute arbitrary code on affected network appliances. The attack vector begins with an exposed appliance accessible from the internet. An attacker can then leverage this exposure to send a specially crafted request, resulting in the execution of their code on the appliance and potentially leading to unauthorized control.

  • Network appliance exposed externally.
  • Unauthenticated attacker sends crafted request.
  • Arbitrary code execution occurs.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability on WatchGuard Firebox and XTM appliances allows an unauthenticated user to execute arbitrary code. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized control over affected systems, impacting data confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Organizations should prioritize addressing this issue to mitigate potential business risks.

  • Likely attacker skill level: Low
  • Required access or conditions: Network access
  • Business risk or urgency: High

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This critical vulnerability affects WatchGuard Firebox and XTM appliances, potentially allowing unauthenticated users to execute arbitrary code. The impact on affected organizations could include unauthorized system access and data compromise. Identifying and remediating these vulnerable systems is a priority to mitigate business risk.

  • Find affected appliances.
  • Reduce exposure or isolate risk.
  • Fix, verify, and monitor.

Frequently asked questions

What are WatchGuard Firebox and XTM appliances used for?

WatchGuard Firebox and XTM appliances are network security devices. They function as firewalls and network gateways, managing and inspecting internet traffic at the edge of a network to protect internal systems.

What kind of weakness does CVE-2022-26318 represent?

CVE-2022-26318 is a critical vulnerability that allows an unauthenticated user to execute arbitrary code. This means an attacker can run their own commands on the affected device without needing any prior access or credentials.

How can an attacker exploit this CVE-2022-26318 vulnerability?

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted request to an affected appliance that is accessible from the internet. No authentication is required for the attacker to trigger the bug.

Who should be concerned about CVE-2022-26318?

Organizations using WatchGuard Firebox or XTM appliances should be concerned, especially if these devices are internet-facing. Because these appliances manage network perimeters, they are typically exposed to the internet, making them potential targets.

What is the first step to address CVE-2022-26318?

The first step is to identify which WatchGuard Firebox and XTM appliances are running affected versions of the Fireware OS. After identification, steps should be taken to reduce their exposure or isolate them while a fix is applied.

References