WatchGuard Firebox and XTM Appliances Arbitrary Code Execution (CVE-2022-26318)

On WatchGuard Firebox and XTM appliances, an unauthenticated user can execute arbitrary code.

Published Mar 4, 2022 · Updated May 29, 2026

Why patchRisk explained in plain English

Worst-case scenarioIf unpatched

A remote attacker, without authentication, can achieve full data confidentiality loss, arbitrary modification of data, complete denial of service or system unavailability. Federal agencies are required to remediate by 2022-04-15 under CISA BOD 22-01.

How the attack worksNo clicks needed

This vulnerability affects WatchGuard Firebox and XTM Appliances. On WatchGuard Firebox and XTM appliances, an unauthenticated user can execute arbitrary code, aka FBX-22786. This vulnerability impacts Fireware OS before 12.7.2_U2, 12.x before 12.1.3_U8, and 12.2.x through 12.5.x before 12.5.9_U2. Exploitation requires remote network access, low attack complexity, no authentication required, and no user interaction required.

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Phishing link

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Malicious file

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Server compromised

Am I affected?Quick check

Probably yes if any of these apply:

●IT Security

●Running fireware: 12.0.0 ≤ v < 12.1.3, 12.5 ≤ v < 12.5.9, 12.7.0 ≤ v < 12.7.2, 12.1.3, 12.5.9, 12.7.2

Real-world incidentsWhat we've seen

CISA added this CVE to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog on 2022-03-25 based on evidence of active exploitation in the wild. Federal agencies required to remediate by 2022-04-15.

How to patch

Get the fix

Apply the fixed package from your vendor. The advisory lists affected versions and the exact fixed build.

↗ Vendor advisory

Manual remediation steps

Apply the Vendor Patch

This vulnerability is in the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog — apply the vendor's security update as soon as possible.

CISA required action: Apply updates per vendor instructions.

References

Vendor advisory: https://www.watchguard.com/support/release-notes/fireware/12/en-US/EN_ReleaseNotes_Fireware_12_7_2/index.html#Fireware/en-US/resolved_issues.html

NVD entry: https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2022-26318

CISA KEV: https://www.cisa.gov/known-exploited-vulnerabilities-catalog?field_cve=CVE-2022-26318

PowerShell automationComing soon

No tested PowerShell script for this entry yet. We’re prioritising automation based on user demand.

References

↗ CVE-2022-26318 ↗ Advisory