CVE-2019-6693
Published: June 25, 2025
Official Description
Fortinet FortiOS contains a use of hard-coded credentials vulnerability that could allow an attacker to cipher sensitive data in FortiOS configuration backup file via knowledge of the hard-coded key.
CISA KEV Advisory
Fortinet FortiOS Use of Hard-Coded Credentials Vulnerability
Fortinet FortiOS contains a use of hard-coded credentials vulnerability that could allow an attacker to cipher sensitive data in FortiOS configuration backup file via knowledge of the hard-coded key.
Apply mitigations per vendor instructions, follow applicable BOD 22-01 guidance for cloud services, or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable.
Risk Analysis
This Fortinet FortiOS vulnerability involves the use of hard-coded credentials, allowing an attacker to decrypt sensitive data within configuration backup files. The high EPSS score of 0.72223 indicates a significant likelihood of exploitation, and its inclusion in the KEV catalog confirms it has been actively exploited.
This vulnerability has been actively exploited in the wild, as confirmed by its presence in the KEV catalog. Attackers are using knowledge of the hard-coded key to access sensitive data.
Ensure Fortinet FortiOS devices are running the latest firmware versions to address this vulnerability. Review and secure configuration backup practices, avoiding reliance on default or hard-coded credentials.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2019-6693 requires local access, meaning attackers must already have a foothold on the target system.
Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
CISA has added CVE-2019-6693 to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, confirming active exploitation in the wild. U.S. federal agencies are required to patch this within the mandated timeframe, and all organizations should treat remediation as urgent.
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
All References (2)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2019-6693 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts
- !CISA KEV: Federal agencies must patch per BOD 22-01 timeline
- !Active exploitation confirmed — treat as P1