CVE-2025-20281 Overview
A vulnerability in a specific API of Cisco ISE and Cisco ISE-PIC could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to execute arbitrary code on the underlying operating system as root. The attacker does not require any valid credentials to exploit this vulnerability.
Critical Impact
This vulnerability may allow an unauthenticated attacker to gain root privileges, posing a severe risk to network infrastructure.
Affected Products
- Cisco Identity Services Engine
- Cisco Identity Services Engine Passive Identity Connector
Discovery Timeline
- Not Available - Vulnerability discovered by Unknown
- Not Available - Responsible disclosure to Cisco
- Not Available - CVE CVE-2025-20281 assigned
- Not Available - Cisco releases security patch
- 2025-06-25 - CVE CVE-2025-20281 published to NVD
- 2025-10-28 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2025-20281
Vulnerability Analysis
This vulnerability is due to insufficient validation of user-supplied input. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by submitting a crafted API request.
Root Cause
The root cause of this issue lies in improper input validation within the API, allowing crafted inputs to be processed and executed.
Attack Vector
The attack vector for this vulnerability is over the network, where a remote attacker can send crafted API requests to the affected system.
# Example exploitation code (sanitized)
import requests
url = "http://vulnerable-cisco-device/api/vulnerable-endpoint"
payload = { 'malicious_input': 'crafted_data' }
response = requests.post(url, json=payload)
print(response.text)
Detection Methods for CVE-2025-20281
Indicators of Compromise
- Unusual outbound network traffic
- Sudden increase in privilege-level processes
- Modified system files or configurations
Detection Strategies
Network monitoring systems should be configured to detect anomalous API requests. Logging should be enabled for all API activities.
Monitoring Recommendations
Utilize intrusion detection systems (IDS) to flag unusual API request patterns. Regularly review logs for unauthorized access attempts.
How to Mitigate CVE-2025-20281
Immediate Actions Required
- Disable affected API endpoints if possible
- Monitor network traffic for signs of exploitation
- Enforce strict input validation on user-supplied data
Patch Information
Cisco has released patches as part of their security advisories. Users are advised to upgrade to the latest version as outlined in the vendor's advisory.
Workarounds
As a temporary measure, access to vulnerable endpoints can be restricted through network segmentation and firewall rules until patches can be applied.
# Configuration example
echo "Blocking vulnerable API access"
iptables -A INPUT -p tcp --dport 80 -s <source_ip> -j DROP
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
