**New .NET Framework Vulnerability "SOAPwn" Exposes Enterprises to Remote Code Execution Risks**
Security researchers at WatchTowr Labs have uncovered a critical vulnerability in the .NET Framework, dubbed "SOAPwn", which enables remote code execution (RCE) through an invalid cast flaw in serialization processes. The vulnerability poses a severe threat to enterprise infrastructure, with known impacts on applications such as Barracuda Service Center RMM, Ivanti Endpoint Manager (EPM), and Umbraco 8. However, due to the widespread use of .NET in enterprise environments, the risk extends across multiple industries.
The flaw stems from improper type handling during .NET serialization, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. Successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise, exposing sensitive data and disrupting critical operations.
Organizations using affected applications are urged to monitor vendor advisories and apply patches immediately. Additional mitigation strategies include code audits, network segmentation, and enhanced security monitoring via IDS and SIEM tools. The discovery underscores the need for proactive vulnerability management and collaboration with security researchers to address emerging threats.
Barracuda cybersecurity rating report: https://www.rankiteo.com/company/barracuda-networks
"id": "BAR1765454547",
"linkid": "barracuda-networks",
"type": "Vulnerability",
"date": "12/2025",
"severity": "100",
"impact": "5",
"explanation": "Attack threatening the organization's existence"
{'affected_entities': [{'name': 'Barracuda Service Center RMM',
'type': 'Application'},
{'name': 'Ivanti Endpoint Manager (EPM)',
'type': 'Application'},
{'name': 'Umbraco 8', 'type': 'Application'}],
'attack_vector': 'Remote Exploitation',
'data_breach': {'sensitivity_of_data': 'High',
'type_of_data_compromised': 'Sensitive data'},
'description': 'Security researchers from WatchTowr Labs identified a new '
"threat affecting the .NET Framework, designated as 'SOAPwn.' "
"This vulnerability, described as an 'invalid cast "
"vulnerability,' poses significant risks to enterprise "
'infrastructure by potentially enabling remote code execution '
'(RCE). Applications such as Barracuda Service Center RMM, '
'Ivanti Endpoint Manager (EPM), and Umbraco 8 are known to be '
'affected, but the scope extends to a broader range of '
'vendors.',
'impact': {'identity_theft_risk': 'Potential risk due to sensitive data '
'exposure',
'operational_impact': 'Potential disruption of critical business '
'operations or service delivery',
'systems_affected': 'Enterprise applications relying on .NET '
'Framework'},
'lessons_learned': 'Vulnerabilities like SOAPwn highlight the necessity for a '
'robust and adaptable security posture. Enterprises need '
'to ensure their development and deployment frameworks are '
'hardened against such threats.',
'post_incident_analysis': {'corrective_actions': 'Patch management, code '
'review, network '
'segmentation, and enhanced '
'monitoring',
'root_causes': 'Mismanagement of types within the '
'.NET serialization processes'},
'recommendations': ['Monitor advisories from affected vendors and deploy '
'patches as soon as they are released.',
'Conduct thorough audits and testing in environments '
'relying on the .NET Framework to identify susceptible '
'components.',
'Implement network segmentation to minimize attack '
'surface.',
'Use intrusion detection systems (IDS) and security '
'information and event management (SIEM) tools '
'effectively.',
'Keep cybersecurity policies up-to-date and foster a '
'culture of security awareness among development teams.',
'Perform regular vulnerability assessments and '
'collaborate with security researchers.'],
'references': [{'source': 'WatchTowr Labs'}],
'response': {'containment_measures': 'Network segmentation to minimize attack '
'surface',
'enhanced_monitoring': 'Use of IDS and SIEM tools to track '
'unauthorized activities',
'network_segmentation': 'Implemented to contain potential '
'breaches',
'remediation_measures': 'Patch management, code review, and '
'testing'},
'title': 'SOAPwn: Invalid Cast Vulnerability in .NET Framework',
'type': 'Vulnerability Exploitation',
'vulnerability_exploited': 'Invalid cast vulnerability in .NET Framework '
'serialization processes'}