Overview
A Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability, identified as CVE-2025-13938, has been discovered in the Autotask Technology Integration module of WatchGuard Fireware OS. This vulnerability allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, or other malicious activities.
This issue affects the following versions of WatchGuard Fireware OS:
- 12.4 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
Technical Details
CVE-2025-13938 is a Stored XSS vulnerability. This means that the malicious script injected by an attacker is permanently stored on the server (in this case, within the WatchGuard Fireware OS configuration related to the Autotask integration). When other users access the affected page, the stored script is executed in their browsers, allowing the attacker to potentially:
- Steal user session cookies
- Deface the web page
- Redirect users to malicious websites
- Execute arbitrary code in the user’s browser (depending on the browser’s security settings)
The vulnerability lies in the improper neutralization of user-supplied input during web page generation. Specifically, the Autotask Technology Integration module does not properly sanitize or encode data before displaying it in the web interface.
CVSS Analysis
Currently, the CVSS score for CVE-2025-13938 is not available (N/A). However, given that it is a Stored XSS vulnerability, the potential impact can be significant, especially if exploited against administrative users. WatchGuard’s advisory should provide more details as it becomes available. The CVSS score should be monitored for updates.
Possible Impact
The successful exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to a variety of negative consequences, including:
- Account Takeover: Attackers could steal user credentials and gain unauthorized access to sensitive systems.
- Data Theft: Malicious scripts could be used to steal sensitive information displayed on the affected web pages.
- System Compromise: In some cases, XSS vulnerabilities can be chained with other vulnerabilities to achieve full system compromise.
- Reputation Damage: A successful attack can damage the reputation of the organization using the affected WatchGuard Fireware OS.
Mitigation or Patch Steps
To mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2025-13938, it is strongly recommended to upgrade your WatchGuard Fireware OS to a patched version as soon as possible. Check the WatchGuard advisory for the specific fixed versions.
Until a patch can be applied, consider the following temporary workarounds (although these are not ideal substitutes for patching):
- Disable the Autotask Technology Integration module if it is not actively being used.
- Monitor network traffic for suspicious activity that may indicate an attempted exploitation of this vulnerability.
