Critical FortiWeb Fabric Connector SQLi Flaw Enables Remote Code Execution (CVE Pending)

Critical SQL Injection Flaw in FortiWeb Fabric Connector Enables RCE

Security researchers have disclosed a critical unauthenticated SQL injection (SQLi) vulnerability in Fortinet's FortiWeb Fabric Connector 7.6.x that could allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. The exploit, published on Exploit Database (EDB-ID 52473), demonstrates how the flaw can be chained to achieve remote code execution (RCE).

Technical Details

The vulnerability affects FortiWeb Fabric Connector versions 7.6.0 through 7.6.4. While no CVE identifier has been assigned at the time of disclosure, the exploit details reveal:

• Attack Vector: Unauthenticated SQL injection via crafted HTTP requests
• Impact: Potential remote code execution with SYSTEM-level privileges
• Exploitation Path: SQLi → Command injection → RCE
• Affected Component: FortiWeb Fabric Connector web interface

The proof-of-concept exploit demonstrates how attackers can bypass authentication and inject malicious SQL queries to gain control over the underlying Windows system. Security professionals should note that successful exploitation requires network access to the FortiWeb management interface.

Impact Analysis

This vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations using affected FortiWeb versions:

• Unauthenticated Access: Attackers can exploit the flaw without valid credentials
• Privilege Escalation: Potential SYSTEM-level access on Windows deployments
• Lateral Movement: Compromised FortiWeb appliances could serve as entry points to internal networks
• Data Breach Risk: SQLi vulnerabilities may expose sensitive configuration data

Fortinet has not yet released an official patch or security advisory for this vulnerability. Organizations should monitor Fortinet's PSIRT advisories for updates.

Mitigation Recommendations

Security teams should implement the following measures while awaiting an official patch:

1. Network Segmentation: Restrict access to FortiWeb management interfaces to trusted networks only
2. Web Application Firewall: Deploy WAF rules to detect and block SQL injection attempts
3. Monitoring: Implement enhanced logging for FortiWeb Fabric Connector access and SQL query patterns
4. Temporary Workarounds: Consider disabling the Fabric Connector feature if not critical to operations
5. Vulnerability Scanning: Scan for exposed FortiWeb interfaces using tools like Nessus or Qualys

Security professionals are advised to test any mitigations in non-production environments before deployment. The exploit's publication increases the urgency for organizations to implement protective measures as threat actors may begin scanning for vulnerable systems.