CVE-2026-1078 Overview
An arbitrary file-write vulnerability exists in the Pega Browser Extension (PBE) component of Pega Robotic Automation. This vulnerability affects users running version 22.1 or R25 who utilize automations that interact with Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge browsers. The flaw enables attackers to craft malicious websites containing exploit code that, when visited by a Robot Runtime user, could allow unauthorized file writes to the affected system.
Critical Impact
Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to write arbitrary files to systems running Pega Robotic Automation, potentially leading to system compromise, data manipulation, or further exploitation through planted malicious files.
Affected Products
- Pega Robotic Automation version 22.1
- Pega Robotic Automation version R25
- Pega Browser Extension (PBE) used with Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge
Discovery Timeline
- 2026-04-07 - CVE-2026-1078 published to NVD
- 2026-04-08 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2026-1078
Vulnerability Analysis
This vulnerability is classified under CWE-284 (Improper Access Control), indicating that the Pega Browser Extension fails to properly enforce access controls when handling file-write operations. The network-based attack vector requires user interaction, as the victim must navigate to a malicious website crafted by the attacker. Once triggered, the vulnerability can result in high impact to system integrity and availability, as well as downstream effects on connected systems.
The attack scenario involves a threat actor creating a website containing malicious code specifically designed to exploit the PBE component. When a Robot Runtime user navigates to this malicious website while automations are active, the attacker can abuse the improper access controls to write arbitrary files to the target system.
Root Cause
The root cause stems from improper access control (CWE-284) within the Pega Browser Extension. The extension fails to adequately validate and restrict file-write operations when processing requests from web content, allowing malicious websites to bypass intended security boundaries and write files to locations they should not have access to.
Attack Vector
The attack is network-based and requires user interaction. An attacker must:
- Create a malicious website containing specially crafted code targeting the PBE vulnerability
- Lure or redirect a Robot Runtime user to visit the malicious website
- Exploit the improper access control to execute arbitrary file-write operations on the victim's system
The vulnerability affects users running automations with Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge, as the Pega Browser Extension integrates with these browsers to facilitate robotic process automation workflows. The malicious code executes within the context of the browser extension, leveraging its elevated privileges for file system access.
Detection Methods for CVE-2026-1078
Indicators of Compromise
- Unexpected file creation or modification in system directories by Chrome or Edge browser processes
- Unusual network connections from Pega Browser Extension to unknown external websites
- Anomalous file-write activity originating from PegaRoboticAutomation processes
Detection Strategies
- Monitor file system events for write operations initiated by browser extension processes in unexpected directories
- Implement web filtering to detect and block access to known malicious domains targeting this vulnerability
- Review browser extension logs for suspicious activity during Robot Runtime sessions
Monitoring Recommendations
- Enable detailed logging for Pega Robotic Automation and browser extension activities
- Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for anomalous file system operations
- Correlate web browsing activity with file system changes to identify potential exploitation attempts
How to Mitigate CVE-2026-1078
Immediate Actions Required
- Update Pega Browser Extension to the latest patched version as specified in the vendor security advisory
- Restrict Robot Runtime users from browsing untrusted websites during automation sessions
- Implement network-level controls to limit outbound connections from systems running Pega Robotic Automation
Patch Information
Pega has released a security advisory addressing this vulnerability. Users should consult the Pega Security Advisory A26 for detailed patch information and remediation steps. Apply the recommended updates to Pega Robotic Automation and the Pega Browser Extension components as soon as possible.
Workarounds
- Disable the Pega Browser Extension when not actively required for automation workflows
- Implement strict web content filtering to block access to untrusted or unknown websites during Robot Runtime sessions
- Consider using browser isolation technologies to sandbox Robot Runtime browsing activities
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
