CVE-2024-3393
Published: December 30, 2024
Official Description
Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS contains a vulnerability in parsing and logging malicious DNS packets in the DNS Security feature that, when exploited, allows an unauthenticated attacker to remotely reboot the firewall. Repeated attempts to trigger this condition will cause the firewall to enter maintenance mode.
CISA KEV Advisory
Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS Malicious DNS Packet Vulnerability
Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS contains a vulnerability in parsing and logging malicious DNS packets in the DNS Security feature that, when exploited, allows an unauthenticated attacker to remotely reboot the firewall. Repeated attempts to trigger this condition will cause the firewall to enter maintenance mode.
Apply mitigations per vendor instructions or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable.
Risk Analysis
This vulnerability in Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS DNS Security feature allows an unauthenticated attacker to remotely reboot the firewall by sending malicious DNS packets. Repeated exploitation can force the firewall into maintenance mode, leading to a denial-of-service. Its high EPSS score of 0.78017 and inclusion in CISA's KEV indicate a high likelihood of exploitation and a significant operational risk.
This vulnerability is actively being exploited in the wild, confirming its critical nature. It is remotely exploitable by an unauthenticated attacker, making it a severe threat.
Administrators should apply the latest security updates for Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS. Ensure DNS Security features are configured securely and monitor for unusual DNS traffic patterns.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2024-3393 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-2024-3393 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-2024-3393 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