Vulnerabilities
FortiClient Windows VPN Password Decryption via Hardcoded Key
FortiClient for Windows exposes a hard‑coded key that lets an authenticated local user decrypt stored VPN passwords. The flaw is low severity (CVSS 2.1) but can aid lateral movement. Update the client and disable password saving to mitigate.
What happened
FortiClient for Windows uses a hard‑coded encryption key to store VPN passwords. An unprotected DLL function exposes this key, letting an authenticated local user decrypt the password of any currently logged‑in user.
Impact
Local attackers can recover VPN credentials, enabling lateral movement or remote access. The flaw is low severity (CVSS 2.1) but still relevant where VPN passwords are saved.
What to do
Steps to mitigate:
- Update to the latest FortiClient release, which removes the hard‑coded key.
- Disable the “save password” feature for VPN connections.
- Enforce strong, non‑reusable local passwords and limit local privileges.