CVE-2026-26186 is a SQL injection vulnerability identified in fleetdm's fleet device management software versions prior to 4.80.1. The vulnerability stems from unsafe handling of the 'order_key' query parameter, which is incorporated into the SQL ORDER BY clause using the goqu.I() function without adequate sanitization or validation. This improper neutralization of special elements (CWE-89) allows an authenticated attacker to inject crafted SQL expressions that bypass identifier quoting, enabling execution of arbitrary SQL code within the ORDER BY context. Although the injection vector is limited to the ORDER BY clause, it is sufficient to perform blind SQL injection attacks by leveraging conditional expressions that influence the ordering of query results, thereby disclosing sensitive database information. Additionally, malicious input can cause excessive computational load or query failures, potentially degrading system performance or causing denial of service. No evidence indicates that attackers can perform data modification or execute stacked queries. The vulnerability requires authenticated access but no user interaction. The issue was resolved in fleet version 4.80.1 by properly sanitizing the 'order_key' parameter. In the interim, restricting endpoint access to trusted roles and implementing strict allow-listing of user-supplied sorting parameters at the application or proxy layer are advised to mitigate risk.

The primary impact of this vulnerability is the potential unauthorized disclosure of sensitive database information through blind SQL injection techniques, which can compromise confidentiality. Although direct data modification or destruction is not demonstrated, the ability to extract information can aid attackers in further exploitation or reconnaissance. The vulnerability also poses a risk of degraded system performance or denial of service due to crafted queries causing excessive computation or failures. Organizations relying on fleetdm for device management may face operational disruptions and data exposure risks if exploited. Since the vulnerability requires authenticated access, the threat is somewhat mitigated by existing access controls; however, insider threats or compromised credentials could enable exploitation. The medium CVSS score reflects moderate risk, but the impact could be significant in environments where fleetdm manages critical infrastructure or sensitive devices.

1. Upgrade fleetdm fleet to version 4.80.1 or later immediately to apply the official fix that properly sanitizes the 'order_key' parameter. 2. Until upgrading, restrict access to the vulnerable endpoint strictly to trusted and minimal roles to reduce the attack surface. 3. Implement strict allow-listing of all user-supplied sorting or column parameters at the application or proxy layer to prevent injection of malicious SQL expressions. 4. Conduct thorough code reviews and testing of any custom extensions or integrations that interact with the 'order_key' parameter to ensure no unsafe SQL construction occurs. 5. Monitor logs for unusual query patterns or errors that may indicate attempted exploitation. 6. Employ database query performance monitoring to detect excessive computational loads potentially caused by crafted queries. 7. Educate administrators and users about the risks of SQL injection and enforce strong authentication and credential management to prevent unauthorized access.