Understanding the Risks in Johnson Controls Frick Controls Quantum HD
CVE-2026-21659, CVE-2026-21657, CVE-2026-21656, CVE-2026-21654
Industrial control systems rarely make headlines, but they quietly power critical infrastructure across food production, cold storage, manufacturing, and distribution. When security flaws appear in these systems, the consequences extend beyond data loss. They can affect physical processes.
Four high severity vulnerabilities have been disclosed affecting Johnson Controls Frick Controls Quantum HD version 10.22 and earlier. At the time of disclosure, the records are still undergoing enrichment. However, CNA provided CVSS 4.0 scores classify all four as High severity.
What Is Johnson Controls Frick Controls Quantum HD?
Quantum HD is an industrial refrigeration control system. It acts as the central controller for compressors, valves, sensors, and other refrigeration components inside large facilities.
You will typically find it in:
- Cold storage warehouses
- Food processing plants
- Distribution centers
- Industrial manufacturing facilities
- Large commercial refrigeration environments
The system monitors temperature and pressure inputs, automates refrigeration cycles, and provides an interface for operators. Because it interacts directly with physical equipment, it belongs to the operational technology (OT) layer.
CVE-2026-21659: Unauthenticated RCE via Local File Inclusion
Severity: 8.7 (High)
This vulnerability combines a Local File Inclusion weakness with the possibility of remote code execution. An attacker on the network may be able to manipulate file handling behavior to include unintended local files. Under certain conditions, this can escalate into executing arbitrary code on the device.
Key characteristics:
- Network exploitable
- No authentication required
- No user interaction required
- Low attack complexity
CVE-2026-21657: Code Injection Before Authentication
Severity: 8.8 (High)
This vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of certain input parameters, allowing code injection. The most important detail is that exploitation may occur before authentication.
The primary impact is on integrity and availability. In practical terms, that could mean manipulating device logic or interrupting system operations.
CVE-2026-21656: Additional Code Injection Vulnerability
Severity: 8.8 (High)
Similar in nature to CVE-2026-21657, this also involves improper control of code generation due to inadequate input validation. Multiple injection points suggest broader weaknesses in how input is handled within exposed interfaces.
CVE-2026-21654: OS Command Injection
Severity: 8.8 (High)
This vulnerability involves improper neutralization of special elements in OS commands, leading to potential command injection. Since this flaw can be triggered before authentication, the barrier to exploitation is significantly lowered.
Why These Vulnerabilities Matter
Industrial refrigeration systems are no longer isolated. Many are connected to internal corporate networks for monitoring and maintenance. If segmentation is weak, these vulnerabilities could allow an attacker to:
- Disrupt refrigeration cycles
- Interfere with industrial processes
- Cause downtime or product loss
- Pivot into broader network infrastructure
What Organizations Should Do
- Identify exposed systems: Confirm which devices are running affected versions (10.22 and earlier).
- Monitor vendor advisories: Follow official guidance from Johnson Controls regarding patches or mitigations.
- Restrict network access: Ensure controllers are not directly exposed to the internet. Enforce strong segmentation between IT and OT environments.
- Review remote access: Disable unnecessary services and limit management access to trusted networks.
- Strengthen monitoring: Watch for abnormal requests or unexpected configuration changes.