CVE-2024-48889 in FortiManager
Summary
by MITRE • 12/18/2024
An Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command ('OS Command Injection') vulnerability [CWE-78] in FortiManager version 7.6.0, version 7.4.4 and below, version 7.2.7 and below, version 7.0.12 and below, version 6.4.14 and below and FortiManager Cloud version 7.4.4 and below, version 7.2.7 to 7.2.1, version 7.0.12 to 7.0.1 may allow an authenticated remote attacker to execute unauthorized code via FGFM crafted requests.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/23/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2024-48889 represents a critical operating system command injection flaw that affects multiple versions of FortiManager software across its major release lines. This vulnerability falls under the well-established CWE-78 category, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in operating system commands. The flaw exists within the FortiManager platform's handling of FGFM (FortiGate Firewall Manager) requests, creating a pathway for authenticated remote attackers to exploit the system through crafted malicious inputs.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the FortiManager's command processing mechanisms. When legitimate administrative users authenticate to the system, they inadvertently expose a code execution vector that allows attackers to inject arbitrary operating system commands through specially crafted FGFM requests. This occurs because the system fails to properly escape or filter special command characters that could alter the intended execution flow of operating system calls. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires only authentication to exploit, meaning that an attacker who has gained access to legitimate administrative credentials can leverage this flaw to execute unauthorized code on the underlying system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the ability to perform comprehensive system compromise operations. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to gain full administrative control over the FortiManager appliance, potentially leading to unauthorized network access, data exfiltration, and complete disruption of security operations. The affected versions span multiple major releases including 7.6.0, 7.4.4, 7.2.7, 7.0.12, and 6.4.14, indicating a widespread exposure across the FortiManager product line. This extensive scope makes the vulnerability particularly concerning for organizations that rely heavily on FortiManager for network security management and policy enforcement.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically the execution of operating system commands through legitimate system tools. The attack chain typically involves an initial compromise through credential theft or privilege escalation, followed by exploitation of this command injection vulnerability to execute malicious payloads. Organizations should consider implementing network segmentation to limit access to FortiManager systems, enforcing strict access controls, and monitoring for unusual command execution patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular patch management and the need for organizations to maintain up-to-date security configurations to prevent such authenticated remote code execution scenarios from being exploited in real-world environments.