CVE-2026-22905 is a path traversal vulnerability classified under CWE-22 affecting the WAGO 0852-1322 industrial controller. The vulnerability arises from insufficient validation of URI paths, allowing attackers to manipulate the request path using sequences like /js/../cgi-bin/post.cgi to bypass authentication mechanisms. This bypass grants unauthorized remote access to sensitive CGI endpoints and enables downloading of configuration files that should be protected. The vulnerability is exploitable remotely without any authentication or user interaction, increasing its risk profile. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.5 (high), reflecting the network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, no user interaction, and a significant impact on confidentiality. While no exploits are currently known in the wild, the flaw could be leveraged to gather sensitive configuration data, potentially aiding further attacks or espionage. The affected product is widely used in industrial automation and control systems, which are critical infrastructure components. The lack of available patches at the time of disclosure necessitates immediate compensating controls to reduce exposure. The vulnerability’s root cause is improper limitation of pathname traversal sequences, a common web application security issue, but particularly critical in embedded industrial devices where security controls are often limited.

For European organizations, especially those operating in industrial automation, manufacturing, and critical infrastructure sectors, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to confidentiality. Unauthorized access to configuration files can reveal network architecture, credentials, and system settings, enabling attackers to plan further intrusions or sabotage. While the vulnerability does not directly impact system integrity or availability, the exposure of sensitive data can lead to indirect operational disruptions or compliance violations under GDPR and other data protection regulations. The risk is heightened for organizations relying on WAGO 0852-1322 controllers in production environments without adequate network segmentation or access controls. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability could gain footholds within industrial control networks, potentially escalating to more damaging attacks. The absence of authentication requirements and the ability to exploit remotely make this a critical concern for European industrial sectors striving to maintain operational security and regulatory compliance.

1. Immediately restrict network access to WAGO 0852-1322 devices by implementing strict firewall rules and network segmentation, isolating these controllers from general IT networks and the internet. 2. Monitor web server logs and network traffic for suspicious requests containing path traversal sequences or unauthorized access attempts to CGI endpoints. 3. Disable or restrict access to vulnerable CGI endpoints if possible until a vendor patch is available. 4. Engage with WAGO support to obtain official patches or firmware updates addressing CVE-2026-22905 and apply them promptly once released. 5. Employ intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) with signatures targeting path traversal attacks to detect and block exploitation attempts. 6. Conduct regular security assessments of industrial control systems to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities. 7. Implement strong authentication and access control mechanisms on management interfaces to reduce exposure. 8. Educate operational technology (OT) staff about this vulnerability and best practices for securing industrial devices.