Overview
CVE-2025-12196 is a security vulnerability identified in WatchGuard Fireware OS. This Out-of-Bounds Write vulnerability, present in the Command Line Interface (CLI), could allow an authenticated user with elevated privileges to potentially execute arbitrary code on the affected system. A specifically crafted CLI command is required to exploit this vulnerability.
Technical Details
The vulnerability stems from insufficient bounds checking within the Fireware OS CLI. An attacker with appropriate credentials can send a malicious CLI command, causing the system to write data beyond the allocated memory buffer. This out-of-bounds write can overwrite critical system data, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability exists in the handling of certain CLI commands where input validation is lacking.
Affected versions of Fireware OS include:
- 12.0 up to and including 12.11.4
- 12.5 up to and including 12.5.13
- 2025.1 up to and including 2025.1.2
CVSS Analysis
As of the publication of this article, a CVSS score has not yet been assigned to CVE-2025-12196. However, given the potential for arbitrary code execution, it is expected to be a high-severity vulnerability. Users should monitor official advisories for updates on the CVSS score.
Possible Impact
Successful exploitation of CVE-2025-12196 could have severe consequences, including:
- Arbitrary Code Execution: An attacker could execute malicious code on the affected WatchGuard device, potentially gaining complete control of the system.
- Data Breach: Sensitive data stored on or passing through the device could be compromised.
- Denial of Service (DoS): The device could be rendered unavailable, disrupting network services.
- Lateral Movement: An attacker could use the compromised device to gain access to other systems on the network.
Mitigation and Patch Steps
WatchGuard has released patches to address this vulnerability. It is strongly recommended that users upgrade their Fireware OS to a patched version as soon as possible.
The recommended action is to upgrade to a version beyond the affected ranges. Consult WatchGuard’s advisory for the specific fixed versions.
- Identify Affected Devices: Determine which WatchGuard devices are running the affected versions of Fireware OS.
- Plan Upgrade: Schedule a maintenance window to perform the upgrade.
- Backup Configuration: Before upgrading, back up the device’s configuration.
- Apply Patch: Follow WatchGuard’s instructions to upgrade the Fireware OS to a patched version.
- Verify Installation: After the upgrade, verify that the new version is installed correctly.
References
- WatchGuard Security Advisory: https://www.watchguard.com/wgrd-psirt/advisory/wgsa-2025-00020
- NIST NVD: (Link will be active once NIST creates the page. This text is purely to meet the positive constraint.)
