CVE-2020-2021VulnerabilityPublished 03/25/2022Updated 10/24/2026

CVE-2020-2021: Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS Authentication Bypass Vulnerability

Affects Palo Alto Networks PAN-OSSource CISA KEV

Severity

High

No CVSS score published yet

Exploitation: Actively exploited – in CISA KEV since 03/25/2022
KEV deadline: 04/15/2022
Ransomware: Used in ransomware campaigns
EPSS: 4.4% chance of exploitation in 30 days – higher than 91% of CVEs

What to do

CISA required action

Apply updates per vendor instructions.

nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2020-2021 (opens in a new tab)

Description

CVE-2020-2021 is a high-severity authentication bypass vulnerability in Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS affecting its SAML implementation. This flaw allows attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms, potentially gaining unauthorized access. The vulnerability has been exploited in the wild and is known to be used in ransomware campaigns. No specific affected versions or patch information is provided in the available data.

Summary

Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS contains a vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-2021 in its SAML authentication process. This vulnerability enables an attacker to bypass authentication controls, compromising the security of the system. The issue is classified under CWE-347 (Improper Verification of Cryptographic Signature). Exploitation of this vulnerability has been observed in the wild, including use in ransomware campaigns. No vendor advisory or patch information is provided in the source data.

Impact

Successful exploitation of this vulnerability allows attackers to bypass authentication on PAN-OS devices, potentially leading to unauthorized access and control over affected systems. This can facilitate further malicious activities such as ransomware deployment. The vulnerability is actively exploited in the wild, increasing the risk to affected organizations.

Mitigation

Patch status is not yet confirmed — check the vendor advisory for current remediation guidance. Due to the lack of explicit patch or mitigation information, organizations should monitor Palo Alto Networks advisories for updates and apply any official fixes once available.

Weaknesses

CWE-347Improper Signature Verification (opens in a new tab)

What to do

Description

AnalysisAI-generated, updated 10/24/2026, 11:10:43 UTC

Weaknesses

References

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