CVE-2023-48788 Fortinet FortiClient EMS: database injection
In plain words: Text typed into the app ends up changing the database query behind it. Reading, changing or stealing data from the database.
Confirmed exploited by CISA on · US federal patch deadline Apr 15, 2024
What to do
- Install Fortinet's security update for FortiClient EMS. If no update exists, follow the vendor's workaround or stop using the product until one ships.
- Patch edge devices first — attackers often start scanning for them within hours of a fix.
- Never expose the device's admin page to the internet.
- After patching a device that was exposed, follow the vendor's compromise checks, end active sessions and change passwords.
Who is affected
Work IT. Aimed mostly at company systems — you are affected through the companies you use, not your own phone.
What's at risk: They face the internet and guard the whole network, so a flaw here can hand attackers a way in — and these devices usually run no antivirus, so break-ins go unnoticed.
The details
- Official name
- Fortinet FortiClient EMS SQL Injection Vulnerability
- Product
- Fortinet FortiClient EMS
- CISA description
- Fortinet FortiClient EMS contains a SQL injection vulnerability that allows an unauthenticated attacker to execute commands as SYSTEM via specifically crafted requests.
- Type of flaw
- Database injection (CWE-89)
- Confirmed exploited
- Mar 25, 2024 — known to be used in ransomware attacks
- US federal patch deadline
- Apr 15, 2024
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Answering about CVE-2023-48788 ·
Questions about CVE-2023-48788
Is CVE-2023-48788 being exploited?
Yes. CISA added CVE-2023-48788 to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog on Mar 25, 2024, which means there is reliable evidence of real-world attacks, including by ransomware groups.
How do I fix CVE-2023-48788?
Install Fortinet's security update for FortiClient EMS. If no update exists, follow the vendor's workaround or stop using the product until one ships. Patch edge devices first — attackers often start scanning for them within hours of a fix.
Am I affected by CVE-2023-48788?
Only if you use Fortinet FortiClient EMS. Aimed mostly at company systems — you are affected through the companies you use, not your own phone.