CVE-2026-49441: Wazuh : peer-controlled metadata key in process_files_from_worker non-merged branch allows arbitrary file write under WAZUH_PATH on Wazuh manager

Vulnerability summary

CVE-2026-49441 is a critical (CVSS 9.1) External Control of File Name or Path vulnerability in wazuh. EPSS estimates a 0.77% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days, higher than 55.2% of scored vulnerabilities. 1 public exploit is recorded.

Timeline

1. 19-08-2026
   PublishedVulnerability first disclosed.
2. 19-08-2026
   Last modifiedVulnerability information updated.

Description

Wazuh is a free and open source platform used for threat prevention, detection, and response. From 4.3.0 until 4.14.6 and 5.0.0-beta3, the non-merged branch of process_files_from_worker() in framework/wazuh/core/cluster/master.py trusts a peer-controlled file_path key from files_metadata.json. The destination is joined to WAZUH_PATH without proving that it remains inside the directory selected by cluster_item_key. A cluster peer holding the shared Fernet key can upload a crafted extra-valid archive and overwrite security-sensitive files such as /var/ossec/etc/ossec.conf. Replacing ossec.conf can configure root-executed commands and lead to code execution after a service reload. This issue is fixed in versions 4.14.6 and 5.0.0-beta3.

• CWE-73External Control of File Name or PathThe product allows user input to control or influence paths or file names that are used in filesystem operations.