Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS
Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS is affected by a critical-severity vulnerability (CVE-2026-0257) that is confirmed to be actively exploited in the wild. Apply mitigations per vendor instructions, follow applicable BOD 22-01 guidance for cloud services, or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable.
What is this vulnerability?
Authentication bypass vulnerabilities in the GlobalProtect portal and gateway of Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS® software allows the attacker to bypass security restrictions and establish an unauthorized VPN connection. Panorama and Cloud NGFW are not impacted by these issues.
How it works
This is classified as CWE-565. In plain terms, an attacker could use this flaw in PAN-OS to gain access, disrupt service, or steal data — the exact impact depends on how it’s deployed in your environment.
CVSS vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:N
Apply mitigations per vendor instructions, follow applicable BOD 22-01 guidance for cloud services, or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable.
Mitigations
- Apply the vendor’s security patch or update as soon as it’s available and tested.
- If no patch exists yet, apply the vendor’s temporary workaround.
- Limit network exposure of the affected system until it’s patched.
- Review logs for signs of prior exploitation, especially if it’s flagged for ransomware use.
Recommendations
- Confirm whether Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS is used anywhere in your environment.
- Patch internet-facing systems first, then internal ones.
- Set a reminder ahead of the remediation deadline so it doesn’t slip.
- Subscribe to the vendor’s security advisories for earlier warning next time.
Compiled from public threat intelligence (CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog and the National Vulnerability Database, referenced in 3 public advisories).