Overview
Multiple versions of Fortinet FortiOS SSL-VPN contain a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability which can allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to execute arbitrary code or commands via specifically crafted requests.
https://www.fortiguard.com/psirt/FG-IR-22-398; https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2022-42475
Key Details
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| CVE ID | CVE-2022-42475 |
| Vendor / Product | Fortinet — FortiOS |
| NVD Published | 2023-01-02 |
| NVD Last Modified | 2025-10-24 |
| CVSS 3.1 Score | 9.8 |
| CVSS 3.1 Vector | CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H |
| Severity | CRITICAL |
| CWE | CWE-197 |
| CISA KEV Added | 2022-12-13 |
| CISA KEV Deadline | 2023-01-03 |
| Known Ransomware Use | ⚠️ Yes |
CVSS 3.1 Breakdown
Attack Vector
Network
Attack Complexity
Low
Privileges Required
None
User Interaction
None
Scope
Unchanged
Confidentiality
High
Integrity
High
Availability
High
Required Action
CISA BOD 22-01 Deadline: 2023-01-03.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Timeline
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 2022-12-13 | Added to CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog |
| 2023-01-03 | CISA BOD 22-01 remediation deadline |
References
| Resource | Type |
|---|---|
| NVD — CVE-2022-42475 | Vulnerability Database |
| CISA KEV Catalog Entry | US Government |