CVE-2026-35616
CriticalExploitedPublic exploitA improper access control vulnerability in Fortinet FortiClientEMS 7.4.5 through 7.4.6 may allow an unauthenticated attacker to execute unauthorized code or commands via crafted requests.
Published Apr 4, 2026 · Updated Jul 24, 2026
Key Facts
Patch immediately- CVE-2026-35616 is a critical-severity vulnerability (CVSS 9.8 v3.1) affecting Forticlientems (Fortinet).
- It is exploited in the wild, listed in CISA KEV, Industry KEV feed, CIRCL KEV, ENISA EUVD since Apr 4, 2026 and is known to be used in ransomware campaigns. Public exploit code is available.
- EPSS estimates a 9.1% probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.
- No fixed version is listed yet; check the vendor advisory for mitigations.
- Brandefense priority: patch immediately, because it is listed as exploited in the wild.
CVSS v3.1
9.8
CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
EPSS (30-day exploit likelihood)
9.1%
Higher than 95.2% of all scored CVEs
Exploited in the wild
Yes
4 catalog listings, used by ransomware
Public exploit code
Available
Proof-of-concept or weaponized module
Get the full CVE-2026-35616 brief as a PDF
Every affected product and fixed release, exploitation status and a first 24 hours response checklist, emailed within minutes.
Description
A improper access control vulnerability in Fortinet FortiClientEMS 7.4.5 through 7.4.6 may allow an unauthenticated attacker to execute unauthorized code or commands via crafted requests.
Known-Exploited Catalog Listings
| Catalog | Added | Remediation due | Ransomware use |
|---|---|---|---|
| CISA KEV | Apr 6, 2026 | Apr 9, 2026 | Not reported |
| Industry KEV feed | Apr 4, 2026 | Apr 9, 2026 | Known |
| CIRCL KEV | Apr 6, 2026 | Apr 9, 2026 | Not reported |
| ENISA EUVD | Apr 6, 2026 | n/a | Not reported |
Required action: Apply mitigations per vendor instructions, follow applicable BOD 22-01 guidance for cloud services, or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable.
Affected Products
2 affected entries in total| Product | Affected versions | Fixed in |
|---|---|---|
| ForticlientemsFortinet | 7.4.5, 7.4.6 | n/a |
Timeline
Publicly disclosed
Apr 4, 2026
Added to Industry KEV feed
Apr 4, 2026
Added to CISA KEV
Apr 6, 2026
Added to CIRCL KEV
Apr 6, 2026
Added to ENISA EUVD
Apr 6, 2026
Last updated
Jul 24, 2026
Weakness Type
- CWE-284 Improper Access Control
References
- exploitVulnCheck exploitation report
- exploitVulnCheck exploitation report
- exploitVulnCheck exploitation report
- exploitVulnCheck exploitation report
- exploitVulnCheck exploitation report
FAQ
Common Questions.
A improper access control vulnerability in Fortinet FortiClientEMS 7.4.5 through 7.4.6 may allow an unauthenticated attacker to execute unauthorized code or commands via crafted requests.
Affected: Forticlientems (Fortinet) versions 7.4.5, 7.4.6. The full list is in the CVE brief.
It is exploited in the wild, listed in CISA KEV, Industry KEV feed, CIRCL KEV, ENISA EUVD since Apr 4, 2026 and is known to be used in ransomware campaigns.
Yes. It was added on Apr 6, 2026 with a federal remediation due date of Apr 9, 2026.
Public exploit code is available.
No fixed version is listed yet; check the vendor advisory for mitigations.
Brandefense priority: patch immediately, because it is listed as exploited in the wild.
Is CVE-2026-35616 Running On Your Attack Surface?
Brandefense maps vulnerabilities like this one to your internet-facing assets and tells you exactly where to patch.
Request A Demo