WatchGuard Fireware OS RCE actively exploited in wild
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Unauthenticated arbitrary code execution via IKEv2 VPN in WatchGuard Fireware OS is actively exploited; patch immediately.
A critical out-of-bounds write vulnerability in WatchGuard Fireware OS affects the iked process handling IKEv2 VPN connections. The flaw permits unauthenticated remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on Firebox appliances configured with mobile user VPN or branch office VPN using IKEv2, particularly when dynamic gateway peers are in use. Notably, residual vulnerability may persist even if those VPN configurations have been deleted, provided a branch office VPN to a static gateway peer remains active.
WatchGuard has confirmed active exploitation in the wild, making this a live threat requiring immediate action. Affected versions span Fireware OS 11.10.2 through 11.12.4_Update1, 12.0 through 12.11.5, and 2025.1 through 2025.1.3. Organizations running WatchGuard Firebox appliances must apply vendor-supplied updates without delay and review IKEv2 VPN configurations to identify and remediate residual vulnerability from previously deleted setups. This is an initial-access vector that bypasses authentication entirely, making it exceptionally dangerous in production environments.
Mentioned in this report
Source reporting: https://www.cisecurity.org/advisory/a-vulnerability-in-watchguard-fireware-os-could-allow-for-arbitrary-code-execution_2025-118
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