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Qilin and INC Ransomware Groups Exploit Palo Alto Networks Flaw to Bypass MFA

The Hacker News
Actively Exploited
RansomwareCVEExploitVulnerabilityPalo Alto

Overview

Palo Alto Networks has reported ongoing exploitation of a significant security flaw in its PAN-OS and Prisma Access products, identified as CVE-2026-0257. This vulnerability, which has a CVSS score of 7.8, allows attackers to bypass multi-factor authentication and create unauthorized VPN connections. Although the flaw was patched in May 2026, ransomware groups, including Qilin and INC, are still actively using this exploit to target organizations. This is particularly concerning for businesses relying on these systems for secure remote access, as it can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data. Companies should ensure they have applied the latest patches and monitor their systems for any signs of exploitation.

Key Takeaways

  • Active Exploitation: This vulnerability is being actively exploited by attackers. Immediate action is recommended.
  • Affected Systems: Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS, Prisma Access (versions affected not specified)
  • Action Required: Palo Alto Networks released a patch for CVE-2026-0257 in May 2026.
  • Timeline: Ongoing since May 2026

Original Article Summary

Palo Alto Networks has disclosed that it's continuing to observe exploitation of a now-patched security flaw impacting PAN-OS and Prisma Access by ransomware actors. The activity relates to CVE-2026-0257 (CVSS score: 7.8), an authentication bypass flaw that could be exploited by bad actors to set up unauthorized VPN connections. It was patched by Palo Alto Networks in May 2026 and was

Impact

Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS, Prisma Access (versions affected not specified)

Exploitation Status

This vulnerability is confirmed to be actively exploited by attackers in real-world attacks. Organizations should prioritize patching or implementing workarounds immediately.

Timeline

Ongoing since May 2026

Remediation

Palo Alto Networks released a patch for CVE-2026-0257 in May 2026. Users should ensure that they have applied this update to their PAN-OS and Prisma Access systems to mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Additional Information

This threat intelligence is aggregated from trusted cybersecurity sources. For the most up-to-date information, technical details, and official vendor guidance, please refer to the original article linked below.

Related Topics: This incident relates to Ransomware, CVE, Exploit, and 2 more.

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